Recognizing and Treating Separation Anxiety

All of us feel some sense of loss when circumstances make it necessary to leave a loved one for a period of time. Nevertheless, we tend to understand the time apart is relatively short, and we have faith that we will see that person again. That is, unless we are dealing with separation anxiety disorder.

Separation anxiety disorder afflicts millions of people of all ages. The underlying feeling with the disorder is that if we leave the presence of a loved one, something traumatic will occur and we will never be able to see that individual again. The feeling can be so strong that we resist all attempts to continue on with our daily lives, often focusing in so strongly on our loved one that there is no room in our lives for anyone or anything else.

Insomnia is frequently associated with separation anxiety. This is related back to the fact that something terrible could happen to a loved one while we sleep. Often, a person suffering from separation anxiety will remain awake until the body basically forces the individual to shut down and get some rest. But the rest will be fitful and as soon as the body has obtained a minimum of recovery time, the person will awaken and the cycle continues.

It is not unusual for separation anxiety to manifest itself after a life-changing event. As an example, the loss of a parent due to death or divorce may trigger a reaction that causes the child to cling to the remaining parent. In like manner, a parent who loses a child through death may cling harder to any remaining children, or even to his or her spouse. The loss of a close friend may result in turning to another close friend and becoming obsessed about his or her health and overall well being.

Fortunately separation anxiety, like so many phobias, can be treated successfully with therapy. In some cases, medication may be used in conjunction with the therapy. The goal is to return the person to a state in which he or she once again is able to get on with life and enjoy it. If you would like to know more about separation anxiety, check out listings on the Internet, or contact your local medical association.