It begins with a feeling of urgency to leave for work. And somehow your dog comes out whining trying to tell you “Please!! Don’t go”. Suddenly, you start feeling the pain of leaving your beloved behind. Do you know about this feeling? Well, doctors providing anxiety consultation name it — Separation anxiety. And it’s not something to feel “aww” about all the time. For some, it could be very much debilitating. So, things like “how to deal with separation anxiety?” would always be popping in your minds.
Meanwhile, if you are living under a notion that separation anxiety is limited to kids, the answer is plain and simple “NO.” Researchers don’t have any idea behind the cause, but they often associate this issue in conditions such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, or generalized anxiety disorder. Let me show you how separation anxiety might turn out to be a debilitating syndrome and why you need to address it quickly.
Ideally, a condition thought to be a childhood disorder, crossed the age boundaries, and is now known to cause specific difficulties in adults too. Experts revealed that people who experienced childhood separation anxiety were at a higher risk of developing this condition after growing up. And the same goes for the people who had a family history of separation anxiety or any other mental health disorder.
Still, if you have the condition without any such possible medical history, we won’t be surprised. Significant life changes might trigger the disease in adults. Experiencing a stressor or a loss could result in such a condition.
Like any type of anxiety known, separation anxiety can be equally overwhelming. But, you can get out of the condition using different talk therapies. Doctors providing anxiety consultation might suggest you go for cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Couple or family therapy might also help individuals who are unable to interact effectively under normal circumstances.
However, you don’t need to be a medical professional if you wish to help your friend or family member with separation anxiety. So, you can support them in several ways before they can seek professional anxiety consultation.
Also, Read: ADD and ADHD: Difference, Symptoms, And Treatment
Use as many resources as you can to understand the condition. You can even consult a health care expert to study the impact of this disorder and how to deal with separation anxiety. You can find a lot of helping material on the internet as well. One can find material from reputable organizations that talk regarding every aspect of separation anxiety.
It would be best if you knew how to support someone with anxiety. You might need to spend some time with them several times a week. You could start by grabbing a cup of coffee or attending a sporting event or suggest different ideas that could help them with separation anxiety. Talk to them in pressure times will help them distract from issues they are currently dealing with.
As per a leading journal, a separation anxiety disorder could cause a person to worry constantly. Individuals who are unaware of the condition might not understand the plight of patients who are cribbing about issues almost every time. So, Patience will be the key to around such people. It will make them comfortable that will induce relaxation and calmness. Hence, they will be available for advice and other types of support without any inhibitions.
It is not easy to manage a mental health issue. So, if any of your friend or family member is trying to cope up with separation anxiety challenges, help them with some form of encouragement. For example, if they attend a therapy session without a fuss or participating in mindful meditation could be a few successful measures. So, celebrate it the way they would like.
You can help your friend or family member by finding ways to control their stressors. You can offer them calm breathing and muscle relaxation exercises. Moreover, you can give them ways to engage in positive techniques. You can ask them to confide with someone they feel comfortable with. Anxiety action plans always work with such individuals. Ask them to seek professional help and go for anxiety consultation.
Also, Read: 5 Worst Myths About Anxiety Disorders
Children are more likely to experience separation anxiety, but, if an adult is facing a similar issue, you must help them by learning about this condition. Furthermore, you can be a support system right through, especially when any of their symptoms arise. It’s essential to look for clues as some people turn to drugs or alcohol. Make sure your friends or family avoid such drastic circumstances. Talk to a professional who masters anxiety consultation and help your friends get over with separation anxiety.
Think about it and help your loved ones.