Separation Anxiety Disorder Treatment

The fear of being separated from someone you deeply care about can feel overwhelming and it’s more common than many realize.

While often associated with children, separation anxiety can affect adults too, showing up as persistent worry, distress, or even panic when apart from loved ones.

If you’re finding that this fear disrupts your daily life or relationships, you’re not alone.

At Hanley Center, we understand how painful and isolating separation anxiety can be. Whether it’s a fear rooted in past trauma or something that has developed over time, our evidence-based treatments are designed for people at every life stage. We empower you to face the future with confidence and connection.

Keep reading to learn how separation anxiety disorder is treated or reach out to us today to speak with someone who truly understands what you’re going through.

What is Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Separation anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive fear or distress when separated from attachment figures, such as parents, partners, or close friends.

While it’s commonly associated with children, adults can experience it too.

This type of anxiety disorder goes beyond typical worry.

Common concerns may include fears of losing a loved one, being harmed when apart, or being left alone, creating a sense of vulnerability that feels difficult to escape.

What Causes Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Separation anxiety doesn’t happen without reason. It often stems from life experiences or emotional patterns that shape how safe we feel when apart from others.

Several factors may contribute to the development of separation anxiety disorder, including:

• Traumatic life events, such as loss or illness
• Overprotective or overly dependent relationships
• A family history of anxiety disorders
• Significant changes in environment or routine

Understanding where these fears come from can be a powerful first step toward healing.

Risk Factors for Developing Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can affect anyone, but certain life experiences or conditions may make someone more vulnerable. You may be more likely to develop separation anxiety if you:

• Have a childhood history of anxiety or insecure attachment
• Experienced prolonged separation from caregivers
• Have a co-occurring condition, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Are under high stress or navigating major life transitions

Recognizing these risk factors isn’t about placing blame; it’s about understanding the roots of anxiety so you can begin to move forward with care and support.

Recognizing Separation Anxiety Disorder Symptoms

Understanding the signs of separation anxiety disorder is an important first step toward healing. 

If you’re wondering whether your fears are more than just worry, the following symptoms may help you better understand what you’re experiencing:

• Persistent worry about losing a loved one or being separated
• Refusal to go out alone or be away from a specific person
• Physical symptoms, such as nausea, headaches, or stomachaches, may occur before separation
• Repeated nightmares about separation
• Panic attacks or emotional distress when anticipating separation
• Difficulty concentrating or functioning in work, school, or social settings

Characteristics of Separation Anxiety Disorder

Separation anxiety can affect both children and adults, but the way it shows up, and how deeply it’s felt, can vary widely from person to person. Recognizing these differences is key to finding the right support.

How Separation Anxiety Differs in Adults vs. Children

In children, separation anxiety often shows up through outward behaviors like tantrums, clinginess, or refusing to attend school.

In adults, the symptoms can be harder to spot, but no less distressing. They may include:

• Chronic worry
• Avoiding travel or time apart
• Feeling the need to frequently check in with loved ones for reassurance

Understanding how symptoms shift with age helps ensure the right kind of care and compassion is offered at every stage of life.