Dr. Ana Aznar
Question:
Tips for helping to relieve severe separation anxiety disorder in teens? My tweens are both suffering from this but I don't know how to assist or help them manage it or how to fix it. Thank you!
Dr. Ana’s Answer:
Teenagers living with separation anxiety show signs of fear when they have to say goodbye to their parents or caregivers or just the thought of being separated from them. This anxiety can make them miss school, work, and other activities that require being away from their parents or caregivers.
Here are some steps you should consider:
- Seek help from a mental health professional, experienced in this field. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is usually an effective form of therapy to treat it. If symptoms are severe, medication may be recommended (see more information below).
- If they are receiving support from a mental health professional, follow the treatment plan
- Get to know the condition: when you understand what separation anxiety disorder is and how it works, you are better equipped to support your kids
- Get to know your child: even if they both experience this disorder, they both have different symptoms and ways to deal with it.
- If they attend school, liaise with their teachers so they can support them from their end and you are all on the same page.
- Label and discuss their emotions and behaviours
- Respect their feelings even if they make no sense to you
- Establish a consistent routine to provide them security and stability
- Show calm support
- Practice saying goodbye
You may find these articles useful:
- What Are Your Thoughts on Anxiety Medication for Teens?
- How to Help Children with their Anxiety?
- How to Help a Child with Anxiety?
I hope this information helps. I wish you and your children all the very best.
Love,
Ana
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