Separation Anxiety Disorder

Separation Anxiety Disorder involves excessive fear or anxiety about being separated from attachment figures. While commonly associated with children, it can also affect adults. Symptoms include persistent worry about losing loved ones, reluctance to leave home or go to sleep without being near attachment figures, and physical symptoms like headaches or nausea when separation occurs or is anticipated.

⚠️Symptoms

• Excessive distress when separation from attachment figures occurs
• Persistent worry about losing attachment figures
• Reluctance or refusal to go out or sleep away from home
• Repeated nightmares about separation
• Physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches) when separation is anticipated

🔍Causes

• Family history of anxiety disorders
• Stressful life changes (moving, divorce, loss)
• Overprotective parenting
• Insecure attachment style

💊Treatment Options

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Gradual exposure and desensitization
• Family therapy
• Anti-anxiety medication when severe