Separation Anxiety Disorder

Definition -

Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is one of the most common childhood anxiety disorders. SAD causes a child to suffer from feelings of extreme worry when apart from daily members or other places and people he/she is attached to.

Causes -

SAD is caused by both biological and environmental factors. Life stresses or loss that result in separation, such as the illness or death of a loved one, loss of a beloved pet, divorce of parents, or moving or going away to school can cause SAD’s. 

Some adults also may have mild anxiety or fear when a boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse/parent goes away for a period of time such as on a vacation or business trip. This response is part of the fight-flight-freeze system designed to protect us from threat and danger, and in small doses is useful. However, we expect that as these situations unfold, continue, and repeat, that the individual gets used to these separations.

Symptoms -

Individuals with SAD’s might seem to be fearful and resultant to be alone, have extreme nightmares, myalgia, recurrent and excessive distress about anticipating or being away from home or loved ones, and frequently complain about headaches, stomachaches or other symptoms when separation from a parent or other loved on is anticipated. 

However, it is not limited only to children. Adults and elders can also definitely have SAD’s from numerous factors. Some adults may experience worry about being apart from their spouse or family, be unable to leave the home to go to work, struggle with physical complaints, and other symptoms all of which significantly impacts their life.

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Treatments -

SAD in adults can be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). A healthcare provider could recommend CBT or another type of therapy – such as dialectical behavioral therapy – which is a type of therapy that helps one dealing with difficult emotions.