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Childhood Separation Anxiety Disorder

Excessive and developmentally inappropriate anxiety related to separation from attachment figures.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Childhood Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate, intense and persistent anxiety regarding separation from family or attachment figures. With a prevalence of about 4%, it is one of the most common anxiety disorders in children.

According to diagnostic criteria, symptoms must last at least 4 weeks (6 months in adults) and cause functional impairment. School refusal, sleep problems, somatic complaints (abdominal pain, headache), nightmares and excessive worry about separation are seen.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first-line treatment. Joint family-child sessions, exposure exercises and parent education are core elements. SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline) may be added in moderate-to-severe cases.

Symptoms

Excessive anxiety and crying at separation
Inability to stay home alone
School refusal
Difficulty falling asleep at night
Nightmares (related to separation)
Abdominal pain and headache
Worry about harm coming to attachment figures

Risk Factors

Family history of anxiety disorder
Life stressors (relocation, divorce)
Loss and traumatic experience
Overprotective parenting style
Temperament (inhibition, shyness)
Change of school

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When school refusal becomes persistent
  • Long-standing sleep problems
  • Unexplained abdominal and head pain
  • Excessive panic attacks during separation
  • When social isolation develops

Treatment Methods

01
Detailed clinical and family assessment
02
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
03
Parent education and counseling
04
Exposure and graded separation work
05
Collaboration with the school psychologist
06
SSRI (in severe cases)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.