Separation Anxiety – Not Just For Kids

When most people hear about separation anxiety, they think of small children who have a hard time being away from their parents. This disorder usually begins before or around 18 months old, but can be carried into adulthood.

If a person is separated from their home, belongings or the people that he/she is connected with, the anxiety related to this distress becomes a disorder. Sometimes it can cause further social, occupation, or even academic issues.

You can notice symptoms of separation anxiety if the person has extreme clutching, ongoing worry about a loved one, and the nonstop fear of being by themselves. Nightmares are a regular occurrence, involving separation.

Other signs may include headaches, stomach ache, nausea, and even vomiting. But it is important to recognize not only the physical ailments that happen, but also the psychological.

Separation anxiety can also be evident in adults. The disorder manifests itself differently in adults though. It will usually turn into a panic disorder.

These disorders are known to be caused by a couple of different things. One reason could be a defect to the part of the brain that helps determine the amount of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. When this happens, there is an adrenaline rush which causes the other problems linked with anxiety.

It is thought that anxiety disorders are inherited, so it could be passed on through your genes. If you have anxiety disorders in your family, your child has a greater chance of having an anxiety issue. Parents that have alcohol addictions also make their children more prone to anxiety issues.

If your child has separation anxiety, the best manner to help your child is to get medical attention and counsel. It may also be a good idea to seek some psychological advice.

Children who can understand interventions should try some of the following ways to help alleviate separation anxiety: play with other children the same age, reduce bad thinking, try to think positively, relaxation strategies, and breathing exercises.

Sometimes anti-depressants may be suggested by your health care practitioner. If this is the case, make sure that you help your child take these in the way that is prescribed.