Separation Anxiety DisorderSeparation Anxiety can take many forms and its causes are equally varied. Most people’s perception of anxiety centers on their belief that anxiety derives from excessive worry over common, everyday problems. While certain anxieties are this relatively mild, they can also take many severe and unique forms. Some of these forms are severe and difficult to overcome. Such is the case with this anxiety disorder, a condition that revolves around feeling severely anxious due to being separated from their home or from people whom they feel a deep emotional attachment to. While the condition does manifest in adults, it is more common among young children and adolescents. During the early period of a child’s life, this type of anxiety is not uncommon. When a young infant experiences caregivers leaving its side, the infant will experience a great deal of anxiety. This is because the infant develops an attachment to the nurturing and the protection of the caregiver. When the caregiver leaves, the infant is unsure if the caregiver will return. When the caregiver returns, the child calms down. Such separation anxiety becomes a large part of the child’s mental state and it becomes quite pronounced between the 10th and 18th month. However, as the infant grows older, it becomes clear that the caregiver has no intention of abandoning him/her. At this stage, the anxiety begins to dissipate. Once again, this form of anxiety is normal among all infants and children. However, when the affects of the anxiety reaches a very high level then it can manifest into a disorder. Specifically, it becomes known as Separation Anxiety Disorder. This disorder is essentially anxiety that remains far beyond the initial childhood stage. In fact, it can actually last well into the adolescent years and even into adulthood. This is no minor condition. It is a serious mental health issue that can greatly undermine an individual’s quality of life. But, what is it that causes the condition to manifest? Why is it that only a small percentage of children cannot “let go” of their separation anxiety? As with many mental health conditions it is usually a combination of factors that create the disorder. Genetics are one component that play a large role in disorder development process. Then, there are also issues where exposure to stressful situations can lead to the disorder. For example, a mother who suffers from anxiety or stress during the pregnancy stage can contribute to its onset. The symptoms of the disorder are quite recognizable. Children who are very nervous or apprehensive about attending school or even merely leaving their home may suffer from the disorder. Children and adolescents who suffer anxiety about situations where they are unable return to their home may have the condition. Those experiencing intrusive thoughts about losing their family may have the disorder as well.
In order to truly know if Separation Anxiety Disorder is present, a diagnosis from a professional is necessary. And if the disorder is diagnosed it is critically to immediate seek treatment. Thankfully, there are a variety of treatment methods available that can reverse the negative effects of this serious disorder.
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