Separation Anxiety Disorder

Recognizing the Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder

The psychological problem known as separation anxiety disorder most commonly effects teenagers and children. This disorder could, however, manifest in an individual of any age. Since it was first recognized, the history of separation anxiety disorder in children has been one of evolving treatment methods.

What Is Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Separation anxiety disorder is a mental problem that occurs when a person, most especially toddlers, are threatened by the possibility of or are actually separated from their homes and the people to whom they are attached. It is usually diagnosed when a child suddenly succumbs to deep fear and depression. This anxiety is common to children and teens aged 18 years and below. Most cases have an estimated duration of at least four weeks although the disorder can become chronic in some severe instances.

The Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder

The most common separation anxiety disorder symptoms include:

Excessive distress

When a person is alienated or is threatened by the prospect of being alienated from his home, he often exhibits nervousness, acute grief, and depression. This can take the form of panic attacks or severe bouts of fear characterized by crying or other signs of emotional distress.

Persistent worrying

The effect individual may show signs of nagging persistent worry at the prospect of a separation even if that prospect is not realistic or apt to occur. This worry may be characterized by an unreasoning feat of harm befalling themselves or their loved ones and home.

Refusal to do things

Individuals suffering from separation anxiety disorder may become uncooperative in even the most simple tasks or routines as a method of gaining a degree of control over their perceived situation. For instance a child may refuse to go to school, go to sleep, or even eat, until they have attained some sense of security.

Repeated complaint of physical problems

Separation anxiety disorder in children usually causes them to complain of nausea, vomiting, stomachache, and headache. For the most part, these problems are psychosomatic or the child is feigning illness to engineer a situation in which they feel more emotionally comfortable.

Childhood separation anxiety disorder is a real problem and should be addressed immediately, not allowed to worsen. Beyond the problems it causes to parents in managing their family, it is also a real and painful issue for the child.

Continue to: Finding Effective Treatment for Separation Anxiety Disorder

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