Separation Anxiety Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Treat It

Separation anxiety is an automatic emotional response toward separation from a dear one, commonly seen in children but also in adults. It has become more frequent and severe in today's life with the fast pace and constant changes in one's personal and professional lives. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment can significantly make a difference in managing effectively. 

What is Separation Anxiety Disorder? 

Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is more than just a feeling of discomfort when separated from loved ones. It is a psychological condition characterised by an intense fear or distress about separation, which often impairs daily functioning. Though commonly associated with children, adults can also experience this disorder.  

Why is Separation Anxiety Disorder Common Today? 

Societal pressures, global mobility, and digital connectivity have changed the way people form and maintain attachments. The events of pandemics, family breakdowns, or even work-related relocations increase the sense of separation. These factors have made people more susceptible to separation anxiety. 

Separation Anxiety vs. Normal Anxiety 

Separation anxiety is when you feel anxious or worried while being away from someone close, like a partner, child, parent, or pet. You might experience some level of anxiety while you are away from your loved ones, but when it is too severe and disrupts your daily activities, then it is considered separation anxiety disorder symptoms. It may lead to worry, distress, and physical discomfort, such as headaches or stomach aches. 

When is Separation Anxiety Considered a Disorder? 

Separation anxiety becomes a disorder when the fear is excessive, disproportionate to the situation, and persists for at least four weeks in children or six months in adults. It often disrupts daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being. 

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder 

Separation anxiety disorder symptoms vary from person to person, even though it can affect a large number of people. Instead, their experiences depend on the particular relationships involved, coping strategies, and the individual's distinct personality. We'll look more closely at these symptoms. 

Emotional Symptoms 

Some of the most common emotional symptoms for people with separation anxiety are:

• Recurrent excessive worry about potential harm occurring to loved ones, accompanied by thoughts of worst cases. 

• Fear of separation or abandonment even in known and safe surroundings. 

• Easily upset by separation from loved ones and inability to cope. 

• Severe homesickness that may be experienced for extended periods of time and affect mood and motivation. 

• Overwhelming anxiety when saying goodbye often leads to tears, panic, or feelings of powerlessness. 

Physical Symptoms 

• Frequent stomach pains or nausea that seem to accompany the times when separation has occurred or is anticipated to occur. 

• Headaches or dizziness are not associated with any medical illness. 

• Racing heartbeat or shortness of breath, as if experiencing a panic attack due to stress from separation. 

• Difficulty sleeping, including insomnia, sleeping too much, or nightmares about separation. 

• Fatigue and low energy due to the physical effects of anxiety and disrupted rest. 

Behavioural Symptoms 

• Clings and fails to let loved ones leave, either by following them from room to room or sticking with them in all their daily activities. 

• Avoidance of leaving a person, such as refusing to go to school, work, or party. 

• Excessive need for reassurance, always seeking comfort or validation from loved ones. 

• Outburst of anger, crying, or tantrums during times of separation or threatened with separation. 

• Developing rituals or routines to defer separations, such as long goodbyes or repetitive questions about safety. 

These symptoms can be of variable intensity and presentation, related to the age and context of the individual, but commonly interlinked, influencing psychological well-being, physical health, and social relationships. 

Causes of Separation Anxiety Disorder 

To understand what causes separation anxiety disorder, it is important to examine a mix of internal and external influences. Factors that include genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, and family dynamics all play roles in shaping how this condition develops. 

Through the study of these underlying causes, we will have a better understanding of why separation anxiety occurs and how it can be effectively treated. 

Genetic and Biological Factors 

• Family history of anxiety disorders: Anxiety disorders tend to run in families, so there is a higher possibility of developing separation anxiety. 

• Neurochemical imbalances, especially serotonin: Imbalance in brain chemicals such as serotonin can heighten emotional responses and anxiety. 

• High sensitivity to stress or changes: Some people are naturally more sensitive to stress and changes in life, which increases the chances of developing separation anxiety. 

Environmental and Psychological Causes 

• Childhood trauma or neglect: Traumatic episodes or emotional neglect in childhood may cause a huge fear of separation. 

• Too-protective parenting: Over-protection by parents may increase dependency, hence causing anxiety about separation 

• Rapid changes in routines and environments: Major life transitions may lead to a breaking of stability hence triggering the separation anxiety. 

Family Dynamics and Life Events 

• Parents' separation or divorce: Separation of parents creates insecurities and fears of abandonment among children. 

• Loss of a loved one through death or relocation: The loss of someone important can increase fears of being alone or separated. 

• Frequent relocations due to jobs or schools: Constant movement can disrupt emotional stability, which contributes to anxiety. 

Stages of Separation Anxiety 

Separation anxiety takes different forms at different life stages, from infancy to adulthood. What is normal in an infant’s life becomes more persistent and difficult for them to handle once they grow up. For adults, the anxiety becomes much more complex and even related to other emotional conflicts. Let's discuss how separation anxiety develops during various life stages. 

Infant and Toddler Separation Anxiety 

Infants between the ages of 6 and 18 months are the most likely to experience separation anxiety. At this age, if the carer leaves the room, the kid could cling or wail. This conduct is seen as typical development.  

Separation Anxiety in School-Age Children 

Separation anxiety is triggered by a new school for children or moving home. While some level of anxiety is normal, severe fear or refusal to attend school may be an indicator of a more serious condition. 

Adult Separation Anxiety Disorder 

Adults suffer from persistent fears of losing loved ones, which may disrupt their relationships and daily lives. It often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, such as depression or panic disorder. 

Diagnosis of Separation Anxiety Disorder 

A correct diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder symptoms is essential in planning an effective treatment. A good assessment would differentiate it from other anxiety-related conditions and choose the appropriate interventions. 

How is Separation Anxiety Diagnosed? 

Mental health specialists do a thorough clinical evaluation in order to diagnose separation anxiety disorder. The procedure includes assessing the severity, regularity, and persistence of separation anxiety disorder symptoms in light of the requirements needed to receive a disorder diagnosis. 

They also evaluate the severity of the condition in terms of how the symptoms have affected the daily functioning and interpersonal relationships. 

Diagnostic Tools and Tests 

• Self-report questionnaires for anxiety: The questionnaire measures the anxiety level of the individual and can determine symptoms of separation anxiety as compared to general anxiety. 

• Real-life observation of behaviour: The clinician will note the individual's reaction during the separation situation to evaluate the effect of anxiety in daily life. 

• Differential diagnosis to exclude other disorders: The professional will make sure that the symptoms are not due to any other condition, such as panic disorder or generalised anxiety disorder, by carefully considering all potential contributing factors. 

Treatment Options for Separation Anxiety Disorder 

There are many separation anxiety disorder treatments available to manage the symptoms of this disorder, and one needs to have access to personalised treatment for better outcomes. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

One of the most effective separation anxiety disorder treatments for people with this disorder is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It assists them in identifying and changing unhealthy thought patterns and unpleasant emotions that fuel the condition. It deals with the underlying concerns and fears. 

To combat the negative beliefs, build coping mechanisms, and progressively confront their concerns, approaches including cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques are employed.   

Medication 

The intensity of separation anxiety disorder symptoms can be lowered with the use of medication. Many drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are frequently used to treat separation anxiety. These work by raising serotonin levels, a chemical that aids in mood regulation. 

Support Groups and Family Counselling  

Support groups are a very safe environment for people to share their experiences and to learn ways of coping with the others who understand them. Family counselling helps the family members develop effective communication and problem-solving skills, while it can also help parents know how to support their child's emotional needs. 

When to Seek Professional Help?

Separation anxiety disorder must be taken seriously if it starts to interfere with daily life or relationships. Long-term management techniques such as mindfulness, building a robust support system, and regular counselling can greatly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Mindtalk: Your Resource for Dealing with Separation Anxiety Disorder 

We at Mindtalk are aware of the difficulties in managing separation anxiety. Through workshops, counselling, and therapy, our professionals provide individualised support to help people and families take back control of their lives.

With the correct direction and care, separation anxiety can be controlled. It's critical to realise that you or your loved ones don't have to handle it alone. There is always help available. 

If you're seeking solutions for emotional and mental well-being, MindTalk’s Anxiety Disorder Therapists are here to help. Our platform offers comprehensive mental health services, including counselling, therapy, and psychiatric care, provided by specialised experts. With a focus on evidence-based and holistic approaches, we support your path to personal growth and healing. Reach out to us today to book a therapy session. Call us at +91 73534 00999.

FAQs 

Is separation anxiety treatable? 

Yes, separation anxiety disorder is treatable using therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, and support systems. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and helps individuals regain control of their lives. 

What causes separation anxiety disorder? 

Separation anxiety disorder may be due to genetic causes, neurochemical imbalances, childhood trauma, overprotective parenting, and other significant life events such as divorce or the loss of a loved one. 

Can separation anxiety disorder affect adults? 

Yes, it is possible for adults to struggle with separation anxiety disorder. This is characterised by an extreme fear of losing a loved one. It can affect their relationships and daily functioning. Often, it coexists with other mental disorders, such as depression or panic disorder. 

At what age does separation anxiety end? 

Separation anxiety usually starts at the age of 6–18 months and tends to decline as age advances. However, sometimes, it can continue into childhood or progress into adulthood if not taken care of with proper support and treatment.