Hey Kid, you aren’t just "nervous."
You’re human.

I’ve been where you are, and I’m here to help you understand the science of your fear—and the path to regaining your calm.

Mission

Help kids realize they are never alone in this battle.

Events

Events designed where nobody has to struggle in silence.

Support Resources

Tools for the Tough Days

About Me

My name is Chinedu Nnadi

My journey with anxiety began in the 5th grade with an overwhelming fear of dying, which I later learned was caused by a hyperactive amygdala—the brain's fear center. By balancing my nervous system through counseling and medicine, I moved from a state of constant fight-or-flight to one of informed resilience. Today, I combine my lived experience with a focus on neuroscience research and medical preparation to help other teens identify their symptoms and "battle it better".

I balance my academic and medical pursuits with leadership roles in the Student Council and National Honor Society, while playing JV/Varsity soccer. My passion for service has taken me from local homeless outreach to Lagos, Nigeria, where I provided support to children with neurological disabilities. Whether I am working as a lifeguard or developing the Anxiety Rebound initiative, my mission is to ensure no one has to walk the path of anxiety alone.

My Research

Understanding Brain Chemical Messengers

Under the mentorship of Dr. Jobin Varkey, a Professor at University of Southern California, I am conducting independent neuroscience research to explore the biological foundations of mental health. My work focuses on the fact that anxiety is not a character flaw, but a complex interaction of genetics, life experiences, and brain chemistry. Central to this is the amygdala, the brain's "fear center"; when it becomes hyperactive, it fails to trigger the fight-or-flight response appropriately, causing disruptive anxiety in everyday life.

My research also examines how imbalances in neurotransmitters—the brain's chemical messengers—can intensify feelings of sadness or fear. Furthermore, I investigate the "Stress Loop," where ongoing worry disrupts the balance of the nervous system, creating a cycle of overstimulation that is difficult to break without intervention.

My Activities

Checkout my diverse activities, focusing on your leadership and commitment to both personal growth and community impact.

Athletics & Teamwork

Playing JV and Varsity soccer for University Lab and BRC, a commitment that reinforces the importance of maintaining a healthy work-school life balance.

Neuroresearch & Medicine

Beyond my independent neuroscience research, I participate in "Club-Med" and have completed a medical training program that included competitive essay writing and planning.

Clinical Support

I gained hands-on experience by assisting with daily rounding and notes for a medical program, contributing over 20 hours of service.

International Outreach

I traveled to Lagos, Nigeria, to provide clothing and support to children at an orphanage specifically for those with neurological deficits.

Life Guard

I serve as a lifeguard at a community pool (80+ hours) and volunteer at St. Paul’s Church to provide food for the homeless.

National Honor Society (NHS)

I serve as a leader within the NHS, meeting weekly to organize and execute service projects.

Student Governance & Culture

I am an active leader in the Student Council, the Black Student Union (BSU), and the Spanish Honor Society (SHH), where I help organize school events and foster cultural connections.