Separation Anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a common condition that can affect children of all ages. It is a normal part of development for young children, but when it persists beyond a certain age or interferes with daily life, it can become a concern for parents. In this post, we will discuss what separation anxiety is, why it happens, and how parents can support their children's mental health.
What is separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a condition that occurs when a child experiences intense distress or fear when separated from their caregiver. It is a normal part of development for young children, typically occurring between the ages of 8 months and 2 years. However, in some cases, separation anxiety can persist into school-age years, making it difficult for children to attend school, sleepovers, or participate in other activities without their caregiver.
What causes separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a normal part of development for young children, but it can also be caused by other factors, such as:
Trauma or loss: Children who have experienced trauma or loss may be more likely to experience separation anxiety.
Family history: Children with a family history of anxiety may be more susceptible to developing separation anxiety.
Overprotection: Children who are sheltered may struggle to separate when faced with new situations.
How can parents support their children's mental health?
If your child is struggling with separation anxiety, there are several things you can do to support their mental health:
Prepare your child: Before a separation, prepare your child for what will happen. Explain where you are going, when you will be back, and who will be taking care of them.
Gradual separation: Gradually increase the amount of time your child spends away from you, starting with short periods and gradually increasing the duration.
Encourage independence: Encourage your child to do things on their own, such as getting dressed or packing their backpack.
Maintain a consistent routine: Children thrive on routine and predictability, so maintaining a consistent routine can help reduce anxiety.
Be supportive: Show your child that you understand their fears and concerns and offer reassurance and support.
Seek professional help: If your child's separation anxiety is persistent or interfering with daily life, consider seeking professional help from a mental health professional.
In addition to these strategies, there are things parents can do to support their children's mental health at home. Here are some suggestions:
Promote relaxation techniques: Encourage your child to engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, and to use the lessons learnt when they’re afraid, overwhelmed, or anxious.
Encourage physical activity: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, build confidence, improve mood and promote healthy independence. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities they enjoy, such as bike riding, swimming, or playing sports.
Spend quality time together: Spending quality time with your child can help reduce their baseline levels of anxiety.
Encourage socialisation: Encourage your child to spend time with other children and develop friendships. Socialisation can help reduce anxiety, build confidence, assist them in gaining independence, and improve social skills.
In conclusion, separation anxiety is a common condition that can affect children of all ages. As parents, we can support our children's mental health by preparing them for separation, gradually increasing the amount of time spent apart, promoting independence, maintaining a consistent routine, and seeking professional help if needed. By taking these steps, we can help our children overcome separation anxiety and thrive emotionally and socially.