5 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Your Child

It’s not uncommon for children to want to be close to their parents or caregivers.

They might not like it when you have to leave for work or when they’re left with a babysitter for a few hours, but there’s a difference between desiring that closeness and comfort and struggling with separation anxiety. 

If you’ve been worried that your child might be dealing with those heavy emotions associated with separation, it’s important to get some concrete answers so you can provide the help and support they need. 

With that in mind, let’s take a look at five signs of separation anxiety your child might be displaying.

1. Difficulty Sleeping

Children need to get a good night’s rest, so if your child struggles with sleep, it’s essential to find the cause.

Unfortunately, separation anxiety can cause sleep issues for a variety of reasons.

First, your child might not want you to leave their room. They might want you to sleep with them or simply be there until they finally drift off.

Kids with separation anxiety also often deal with nightmares that can wake them up frequently.

When that happens, it’s difficult to get back to sleep, and the cycle continues.

2. Not Wanting to Go to School

Are mornings a struggle at home as you try to get your child ready for school?

There’s a difference between a child not wanting to go to school just because they want a day off, and a child who is genuinely scared of losing you for the day.

If your child clings to you through the morning routine and has temper tantrums about going to school for the day, it could be a sign of separation anxiety rather than an issue with the school itself.

3. Clinginess

Speaking of your child clinging to you, consider how often they do that.

Is it hard for you to get a moment alone to do anything, even when you’re home?

Children with separation anxiety can’t get close enough to their parents.

Maybe your child clings to your legs while you’re washing the dishes or needs to be next to you on the couch while you’re watching TV. 

While a little clinginess might seem cute at first, it can quickly become frustrating and indicate a bigger problem. 

4. Physical Signs

While separation anxiety is a mental health issue, it can manifest itself through physical symptoms.

While your child panics, they might struggle with shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat, and even trembling.

Over time, they might also experience muscle aches and pains, headaches, and even abdominal pain or nausea.

No parent wants to see their child feeling this way, so while it’s important to rule out other issues, don’t discount separation anxiety if your child starts to feel sick or complains of pain. 

5. Constant Fear

Children dealing with separation anxiety often feel like something bad is going to happen if they’re away from their parents or caregivers.

They might assume someone will get hurt, or lost, or they will never see the person they love again. 

These feelings often trigger clinginess and a refusal to go to school or anywhere else away from home.

It can be difficult to watch your child deal with such heavy and concerning emotions. But, if these issues sound familiar, the best thing you can do for them (and your family) is to reach out for help. 

Therapy is a great way to learn more about where your child’s separation anxiety stems from.

A therapist will also help your child develop strategies for overcoming it. Don’t wait to get your little one the help they deserve.

Feel free to contact us today.