From Anxiety to Resilience: What Texas’ New Health Bill Means for Families
It’s no secret that our kids are struggling. Rates of anxiety, depression, and chronic stress among children and young adults have skyrocketed in recent years. As parents, it’s heartbreaking to see — and overwhelming to know where to start. Between the pressures of school, busy schedules, social media, and the lingering effects of uncertainty in the world, today’s kids are navigating challenges their nervous systems were never designed to handle on their own.
The truth is, chronic stress and anxiety are not just “in their heads.” They’re deeply connected to the body — to the nervous system, nutrition, movement, sleep, and the environment our kids live in every single day. And while the statistics can feel heavy, there’s hope: with the right tools, awareness, and support, we can help our kids not just survive, but truly thrive.
A Step in the Right Direction
Recently, Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 25 part of the “Make America Healthy Again”movement, a new piece of legislation that directly addresses some of the root causes of the mental health crisis — particularly around physical health, nutrition, and lifestyle.
Here’s what parents should know:
More movement in schools: Kids in Pre-K through 5th grade will be required to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day, and middle schoolers will have structured requirements too. Research shows daily movement doesn’t just help with physical health — it calms the nervous system, improves focus, and reduces anxiety.
No taking away recess as punishment: Teachers and schools can no longer remove recess or PE as a consequence for behavior or academics. That means kids will always have access to movement and brain breaks, which are essential for regulation.
Nutrition education built in: Schools will begin teaching nutrition grounded in science — helping kids learn early how food choices impact their mood, energy, and long-term health. High schools will even offer electives in nutrition and wellness that include practical skills like cooking and gardening.
Better trained health professionals: Doctors, nurses, and other providers in Texas will now be required to complete continuing education in nutrition and metabolic health. That means future families will have better support from healthcare providers who understand how nutrition ties into chronic illness, mood, and development.
Transparency in food: Starting in 2027, foods containing certain additives (like artificial colors, titanium dioxide, or partially hydrogenated oils) will need warning labels if they’ve been banned or restricted in other countries. This is a big win for parents who want clarity on what they’re feeding their kids.
This bill represents a movement— putting a spotlight on prevention, lifestyle, and the real factors that shape mental and physical well-being.
Why This Matters for Mental Health
Think about the last time your child was anxious, overwhelmed, or struggling to focus. Chances are, it wasn’t just about the math test or the social drama — it was about the state of their nervous system.
A child who skips recess because of behavior might miss the very movement their body needed to regulate.
A teen running on processed snacks and caffeine might be unknowingly fueling their anxiety.
A lack of rhythm in daily routines (sleep, meals, activity) leaves the nervous system in a constant state of “fight or flight.”
When we give kids consistent movement, nourishing food, quality sleep, and safe environments, their nervous systems can begin to settle. From that foundation, true healing — mentally, emotionally, and physically — becomes possible.
How Families Can Take Action Now
You don’t have to wait for new laws to take effect to support your child’s mental and physical health. Here are a few simple steps you can start today:
Prioritize daily movement — even a walk after school or family dance party helps.
Upgrade snacks and meals — focus on whole foods, protein, and minerals to support energy and mood.
Protect sleep — set routines, get morning sunlight, and limit screens at night to support circadian rhythms.
Model balance — kids need to see parents slowing down, breathing, and choosing rest too.
Make chiropractic part of your family’s routine — gentle, neurological-based adjustments help calm the nervous system, reduce stress patterns, and improve overall resilience.
Final Thoughts
The mental health crisis may feel overwhelming, but we are not powerless. Families, communities, and now even state legislation are beginning to shift toward a more holistic, preventative model of health.
At Sunlife Chiropractic, we believe healing happens when we address the whole person — body, brain, and nervous system. By combining what we know about movement, nutrition, and the power of chiropractic care, we can help kids and families step out of the cycle of stress and into a rhythm of health.
✨ Your child deserves to thrive — body, mind, and heart. Book an appointment today to make nervous system health part of your family’s foundation.