What Is Separation Anxiety Disorder?
Separation anxiety disorder involves an overwhelming fear about being apart from someone you care deeply about. Though it’s frequently diagnosed in children, teens and adults can struggle with it as well. This worry goes beyond normal nervousness and can significantly interfere with daily life.
In young kids, this worry usually circles around parents or primary caregivers. A bit of unease during early development is expected, but when the distress is intense and persistent, it might point to a clinical disorder. Adults can develop separation anxiety too, often tied to partners, children, or close family members, and the intensity can vary depending on the relationship.
Spotting warning signs early, understanding what drives them, and exploring proven treatments are key steps toward lasting relief from separation anxiety.
Symptoms can look different at every age, but generally involve both emotional and physical distress when separated from loved ones. Common signs include:
- Emotional and physical upset when away from close companions
- Intense fear or distress before or during separation
- Persistent worry about a loved one’s safety, like concerns about accidents or illness
- Fears of unlikely events causing separation, such as abduction or natural disasters
- Reluctance or refusal to go to school, work, or leave the house due to separation worries
- Difficulty sleeping without a family member nearby or away from home
- Physical complaints like stomachaches, headaches, or nausea when facing separation
You might notice your body reacting with stomach pain, headaches, or feelings of nausea at the thought of parting ways.
In small children, it often shows up as tantrums or excessive clinginess. Whether in kids or adults, these behaviors must be persistent and disruptive to warrant a diagnosis.
Various triggers—psychological, environmental, or genetic—can set off separation anxiety. Although anyone can develop it, some people are at higher risk because of:
- Traumatic separations, like the death of a loved one, parental divorce, or abrupt moves
- A family history of anxiety disorders or related mental health issues
- Witnessing or experiencing severe disasters or traumatic events
- Personality traits such as being shy or resistant to change
It’s also common for those with separation anxiety to have other mental health issues—like generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, or depression. Tackling these conditions alongside separation anxiety is vital for successful treatment.
Treatment usually begins with therapy, tailored to a person’s age, symptom severity, and goals. Typical approaches include:
- When addressing separation anxiety disorder, therapy is typically the first step. The chosen treatment style varies by age, symptom profile, and objectives. Typical techniques include: This is ideal for younger children, helping them put feelings into words and learn to cope.
- Often used with children to express and manage their emotions. It guides both kids and adults to challenge anxious thoughts and adopt healthier coping mechanisms.
- Supports children and adults in questioning anxious thoughts and building effective coping skills. It can be especially helpful when family relationships influence the anxiety.
If anxiety spikes or therapy alone isn’t enough, a provider may recommend anti-anxiety medications. These are usually paired with therapy and can be short- or long-term, depending on progress and individual needs.
Through secure video appointments, patients can meet licensed mental health experts right from home. Online therapy and telepsychiatry make it easier for those unable to attend in person. With Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, patients can start to ease their symptoms, gain more confidence in daily life, and take back control.
Seeking support for separation anxiety can be life-changing, helping you manage emotions, reestablish daily habits, and boost your overall well-being. With personalized guidance, those dealing with separation stress often experience fewer and less intense episodes, deeper connections, and a more stable, fulfilling lifestyle. At Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, our online care platform provides dependable, ongoing, and compassionate support from experienced professionals. By combining evidence-based therapies with thoughtful medication management, clients learn the skills to handle challenging moments and feel empowered on their mental health journey.