Overview
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder involves determining whether a child’s fears are part of typical development or represent a disorder. After ruling out medical conditions, a pediatrician may refer the child to a mental health professional who specializes in anxiety disorders.
A mental health professional typically conducts a psychological evaluation by talking with the child and parents, both together and separately. This structured interview explores thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Separation anxiety disorder is usually treated first with psychotherapy. Medication may be considered if therapy alone is insufficient. The goal is to reduce anxiety symptoms and help the child manage separation more comfortably.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment. Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, helps children gradually face and manage fears related to separation. Parents also learn strategies to provide emotional support and encourage age-appropriate independence.
Medicine
If symptoms are severe and therapy alone is not enough, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed for older children and adults. Combining medication with CBT can improve outcomes in some cases.
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