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Separation anxiety disorder and depression share many symptoms.
You may be less familiar with separation anxiety disorder (SAD) and its relation to depression.
This article covers the difference between separation anxiety and SAD, as well as the symptoms of SAD.
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Separation Anxiety vs.
SAD affects approximately 1% to 4% of children.
Adults with SAD must have disruptive symptoms that persist for at least six months.
How SAD Relates to Depression
SAD anddepressionactually share many symptoms.
Research indicates a link between adult separation anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder (MDD).
One study found that 41% of adults with MDD in an outpatient psychiatric service also had SAD.
Of those with both MDD and SAD, 75% developed SAD as adults.
Talk to Your Child
Try talking to your child when they are at an age-appropriate level.
Find out what they are scared of and why they don’t want to leave you.
What you hear may surprise you.
Your child may have a simple complaint, which you might easily remedy.
In this case, providing your child with some extra attention may ease theiranxiety.
Prepare Your Child
Prepare them for an upcoming event or separation.
If you notice any symptoms of depression in your child, it is important to seek help.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
A therapist can help your child learnhealthy coping mechanismsto handle their anxiety.
Family therapymay also be recommended.
In family therapy, you, your child, and other immediate family members attend sessions together.
For severe symptoms, children are sometimes prescribed an antidepressant such as aselective serotonin reuptake inhibitor(SSRI).
However, antidepressants are not approved for children under six years old.
Adults with SAD
Cognitive behavioral therapy is also recommended for adults with SAD.
A therapist can help you understand the underlying thoughts and beliefs that contribute to your anxiety.
Similar to treatment for children with SAD, a therapist will teach you healthy coping mechanisms.
They may help you to reframe incidents in a more adaptive way.
In addition to therapy, an antidepressant such as an SSRI may be recommended.
There are resources that can help you feel more comfortable and at ease when away from your loved one.
U.S. National Library of Medicine.
MedlinePlus.Separation anxiety in children.
2015;19(2):28-33. doi:10.1002/pnp.375
Stanford Children’s Health.Separation anxiety disorder in children.
