Question 1

What is Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is characterized by developmentally inappropriate and excessive fear or anxiety concerning separation from those to whom the individual is attached. The anxiety is persistent (lasting at least 4 weeks in children/adolescents and typically 6 months or more in adults) and causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, academic, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Question 2

How is Separation Anxiety Disorder diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

A. Developmentally inappropriate, excessive fear/anxiety concerning separation from attachment figures, evidenced by ≥3 symptoms: (1) distress when anticipating/experiencing separation; (2) worry about losing/harm to attachment figures; (3) worry about untoward events causing separation; (4) reluctance/refusal to go out due to separation fear; (5) reluctance/refusal to be alone or without attachment figures; (6) reluctance/refusal to sleep away from home; (7) nightmares about separation; (8) physical complaints when separation occurs/anticipated. B. Duration ≥4 weeks in children/adolescents; typically ≥6 months in adults. C. Causes distress/impairment. D. Not better explained by another mental disorder.

Question 3

What treatments are available for Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for Separation Anxiety Disorder typically includes medications, psychotherapy.

Question 4

Can Separation Anxiety Disorder be cured?

Accepted Answer

Often remits with treatment, especially in childhood, but may persist into adulthood if untreated. Comorbid anxiety or mood disorders can complicate recovery.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Overview

Description

Prevalence

Age of Onset

DSM-5 Code

ICD-10 Code

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Prognosis

Evaluation

Neurobiology

Risk Factors

Comorbidities

Warning Signs

Impact On Life

Severity Levels

Treatment Goals

Prognosis Factors

When To Seek Help

Real Life Examples

Self Help Strategies

Treatment Approaches

Overdiagnosis Factors

Missed Diagnosis Factors

Seeking Help for Separation Anxiety Disorder?