Separation Anxiety

Top Tips

Separation anxiety is a common experience for many children and young people. It is a feeling of fear and worry that occurs when a child is separated from their parent, guardian or caregiver. This can cause children and young people to feel anxious, lonely, and even panicky. However, there are many ways to help support a child or young person who is experiencing separation anxiety.

Tip 1: Reassurance and Comfort

One of the best ways to support a child or young person with separation anxiety is to provide them with reassurance and comfort. This can involve talking to them about their worries and concerns, and helping them to understand that their feelings are normal. Parents can also offer a comforting touch, such as a hug, or a calming activity such as reading a book together.

Tip 2: Gradual Exposure

Another way to help a child or young person with separation anxiety is to gradually expose them to the situation they are anxious about. For example, if they are nervous about being away from home, you can start with short trips and gradually increase the time they are away. This will help them to build up their confidence and overcome their fears.

Tip 3: Encourage Independent Activities

Encouraging independent activities can also help a child or young person overcome separation anxiety. This can involve activities such as reading, drawing or playing games. By engaging in these activities, children and young people can develop a sense of independence and feel more in control of their environment.

Tip 4: Routine and Consistency

Having a routine and being consistent can also help a child or young person with separation anxiety. By having a predictable schedule, children and young people can feel more in control and less anxious about being separated from their parent or caregiver.

Tip 5: Seek Professional Help

If a child or young person’s separation anxiety is particularly severe, it may be necessary to seek professional help. This can involve talking to a psychologist or counselor who can provide strategies to help the child overcome their anxiety. They can also provide support for the parent and help them to understand how best to support their child.

In conclusion, separation anxiety is a common experience for children and young people. However, there are many ways to support them, including reassurance and comfort, gradual exposure, independent activities, routine and consistency, and seeking professional help. By using these strategies, children and young people can overcome their anxiety and develop the skills they need to feel confident and secure in any situation.

References:

1. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (n.d.). Separation Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Separation-Anxiety-Disorder-054.aspx
2. Anxiety Canada. (n.d.). Separation Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.anxietycanada.com/types-disorders/separation-anxiety-disorder/
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Separation Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/separation-anxiety-disorder/index.shtml
4. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Separation Anxiety Disorder in Children. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/separation-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20350668.