Separation Anxiety Disorder

More often than not, when a child is afraid or alarmed of being separated from one’s parents or caregivers, SAD is thought to be natural. Usually, it is a behaviour that fades over time; however, in some situational circumstances, it continues to persist and if it interferes with one’s daily life, it is termed to be Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD). These are some of the signs to look for to identify SAD in Children and Adults:

Children

Refusal to sleep alone
Repeated nightmares with a theme of separation
Worrying when parted from home or family, the safety of a family member or about getting lost from family
Refusal to go to school
Fearful and reluctant to be alone
Frequent stomach aches or other physical complaints
Very clingy
Panic or temper tantrums at times of separation from parents or caregivers

Adults

Unusual distress about being separated from a person or pet
Excessive worry that another person will be harmed if they leave them alone
Heightened fear of being alone
Physical symptoms
Needing to know where a spouse or loved one is at all times