Wet Pluto

Separation anxiety basically develops as a result separation from one’s home, belongings or separation from the people to whom an individual is attached. It usually occurs in children or adolescents, before or at the age of 18, lasting a month or so. Separation anxiety is responsible for causing substantial distress leading to social, academic or occupational impairment. It is basically marked by excessive brooding, persistent worry about losing or constantly fear of harm befalling a loved one, and a continuous fear or reluctance to be alone. Occurrence of nightmares showing separation from loved ones or family, along with repeated complaints of physical disorders such as headache, stomach ache, nausea or vomiting are all symptoms of separation anxiety disorder.

Separation anxiety disorder can also continue in adulthood. The only change in the adult version is during the later stages, it may culminate into a panic disorder or agoraphobia or both. These disorders are caused due to many factors such as an abnormality in the part of the brain that helps recognize the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, fooling it to believe that the amount of oxygen that the brain is getting isn’t enough. This leads to an adrenaline rush, which leads to symptoms. These disorders can also be inherited, meaning that some people are genetically disposed to the disorder. Parents with alcohol related problems could also make a child more vulnerable to this disorder.

The best way to deal with separation anxiety is to give the child medical attention along with some psychological treatment. He/she should gradually be exposed to the world outside and should be encouraged to mingle with children of the same age. They should be counseled properly to adopt a positive attitude and eliminate bad thoughts that worsen the attacks. They must be taught certain relaxation techniques, as well as breathing exercises to calm down whenever they feel uneasy. These techniques, along with tranquilizers and anti-depressants taken in a regulated manner and under professional supervision, can help relieve symptoms.