DEFINITION

• Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is a common, treatable anxiety disorder characterized by excessive fear and anxiety about being away from attachment figures (such as parents) or home.
• Youth with SAD avoid separation situations (e.g., refusing to attend school, sleep alone, or be left with a babysitter), worry about the safety of self and/or attachment figures, and experience physical symptoms of anxiety (e.g., stomachaches and headaches).
• Adults with SAD also avoid separation situations, which may include avoiding going away to college or separating from their spouse/children.