Manifestations in Children vs. Adults:

In Children:

• Clinginess: Refusing to be left alone or go to school, often resulting in crying or tantrums.

• Excessive Worry: Fear of something bad happening during separation.

• Physical Symptoms: Stomachaches, headaches, or nausea when separated.

• Sleep Issues: Difficulty sleeping alone, often leading to co-sleeping with parents.

• Nightmares: Frequent nightmares about separation.

In Adults:

• Overprotectiveness: Constantly checking on loved ones, leading to strained relationships.

• Avoidance: Avoiding activities that require separation.

• Difficulty Focusing: Struggling to concentrate due to constant worry.

• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, fatigue, or digestive issues related to anxiety.

• Dependency: Strong reliance on loved ones for emotional support.

Separation Anxiety affects 4%–10% of children and 1%–2% of adults in the US. You're not alone, and with the right support, you can overcome this anxiety.

Effective Treatments:

At ATCA, we offer tailored strategies to help you choose long-term freedom over short-term comfort. Some of the approaches we use include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

• Cognitive Restructuring: Changing anxious thoughts about separation.

• Exposure Therapy with Independence Building: Gradual exposure to separation while fostering independence and reducing reliance on others.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:

• Mindfulness: Staying present and accepting anxious feelings without judgment, which helps in reducing the intensity of anxiety.

• Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing and muscle relaxation to manage anxiety.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):

• Acceptance: Embracing anxiety without letting it control you.

• Cognitive Defusion: Viewing distressing thoughts as just thoughts, reducing their impact.

• Values and Action: Taking steps toward independence by focusing on what matters most.