Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is the most common anxiety disorder in children who are younger than 12 years old. Separation anxiety disorder means an individual may become scared or anxious when they are required to be away from those who they are close to (i.e., family, friends, etc.). Individuals with SAD may become just as fearful or anxious when they think about the possibility of being separated from individuals they are close to.
Symptoms:
Symptoms:
- Frequent distress when thinking about or anticipating separation from a key figure in their life.
- Consistent fear or anxiety about leaving the home and going into different environments.
- Consistent fear of being isolated, abandoned or left alone.
- Repeated nightmares about being separated from friends or family members.
- Refusal to sleep away from home or go to sleep without a key figure in their life nearby.
- Feelings of an upset stomach or headache.