Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a psychological condition characterised by excessive fear or anxiety about being apart from home or from significant attachment figures, such as parents or caregivers. While it is a normal part of early childhood development, in some cases, it can persist or become more severe, leading to a diagnosis of Separation Anxiety Disorder.

Do I have Separation Anxiety?

You may have separation anxiety if several of the below resonate with you. 

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder

• Excessive distress when anticipating or experiencing separation from home or major attachment figures.
• Persistent and excessive worry about losing attachment figures or about possible harm to them (e.g., illness, injury, disasters).
• Persistent and excessive worry about experiencing an untoward event (e.g., getting lost, being kidnapped) that causes separation.
• Reluctance or refusal to go to school or elsewhere because of fear of separation.
• Reluctance or refusal to be alone or without major attachment figures.
• Reluctance or refusal to sleep away from home or without a major attachment figure nearby.
• Repeated nightmares involving the theme of separation.
• Physical complaints when separation from attachment figures occurs or is anticipated.

Key Characteristics of Separation Anxiety

1. Excessive Distress:
• Intense fear or anxiety when anticipating or experiencing separation from home or major attachment figures.
• Persistent worry about losing major attachment figures or about possible harm befalling them.
2. Reluctance to Be Alone:
• Refusal or reluctance to go out, away from home, to school, work, or elsewhere because of fear of separation.
• Reluctance or refusal to sleep away from home or go to sleep without being near a major attachment figure.
3. Physical Symptoms:
• Recurrent physical complaints (e.g., headaches, stomach aches) when separation is anticipated or occurs.
• Symptoms of distress like crying, tantrums, or physical clinging.

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Several factors can contribute to the development of separation anxiety:

1. Genetics: A family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions can increase the risk.
2. Temperament: Children who are naturally more cautious or fearful may be more prone to separation anxiety.
3. Environmental Factors: Stressful life events such as moving, divorce, or the loss of a loved one can trigger separation anxiety.
4. Parenting Styles: Overprotective or overly anxious parenting can contribute to the development of separation anxiety.

Treatment for Separation Anxiety

1. Psychotherapy:
• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps children and adults understand and manage their anxiety. Techniques include exposure therapy, relaxation exercises, and cognitive restructuring.
• Family Therapy: Involves family members to support the individual and address family dynamics that may contribute to anxiety.
2. Medication:
• In severe cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
3. Parent Education and Support:
• Parents can learn strategies to help their children cope with separation, such as gradual exposure to separation and reinforcement of positive behaviours.
• Encouraging independence and self-confidence in children.
4. School-Based Interventions:
• Collaboration with teachers and school counsellors to create a supportive school environment and develop individualized strategies to help the child feel safe and secure.

Online support for Separation Anxiety

Understanding and addressing separation anxiety can help individuals manage their fears and lead more balanced and fulfilling lives. Early intervention and support are key to preventing long-term anxiety issues. Our qualified psychologists, therapists and counsellors here at Counselling Psychology Online provide bespoke therapy online for people with separation anxiety. To arrange an assessment session with one of our online psychologists or therapists, contact us here. Answers to the most frequently asked questions about our therapies, fees and online therapy can be found on our FAQ page.