What Is Separation Anxiety and How to Handle It

It is most often associated with infants, but adults can experience it too.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of separation anxiety is the first step to overcoming it effectively.

Understanding Separation Anxiety

It often appears in childhood but can also occur in adults due to past trauma.

Typical signs include:
- Outbursts when left alone
- Fear of being alone
- Stomachaches when thinking about separation

Causes of Separation Anxiety

The causes can be biological.

Contributing factors can be:
- Moving to a new place
- Past trauma or loss
- Limited social exposure
- Genetic predisposition

Identifying Separation Anxiety

Recognizing it early is especially important in children.

Early warning signs may include:
- Difficulty being alone even for short periods
- Avoiding school or social activities
- Insomnia or restlessness

Helping Kids Cope with Separation

Supporting children through separation anxiety requires patience, routine, and reassurance.

Strategies to help separation anxiety include:
- Say goodbye consistently
- Gradually increase time apart
- Encourage self-soothing skills
- Build trust through transparency

Tips for Adults Facing It

Adults can also face separation anxiety, especially in relationships, travel, or after loss.

Coping methods include:
- Talking to a mental health professional
- Using relaxation techniques
- Building a support network
- Challenging irrational fears

Knowing When It's Serious

If separation anxiety is affecting relationships or education, it may be time to seek help.

When intervention is needed:
- Daily disruption due to anxiety
- Frequent illness from stress
- Refusing to engage in normal life

Support and Hope

Separation anxiety can be intense but temporary.

Don’t be afraid to start the process toward peace of mind.