Why Do I Have A Fear Of Separation From A Particular Person?

Do you experience recurrent, excessive distress when anticipating or experiencing separation from a major attachment figure?

Do you experience a persistent and excessive worry about losing major attachment figures or about possible harm to them?

Do you persistently and excessively worry about experiencing an untoward event that causes separation from a major attachment figure?

Do you experience a persistent reluctance or refusal to go out (e.g., to work) because of fear of separation?

Do you experience persistent and excessive fear of being alone or without major attachment figures?

Do you experience persistent reluctance or refusal to sleep away from home or to go to sleep without being near a major attachment figure?

Do you have repeated nightmares involving the theme of separation?

Do you experience physical symptoms when separation from major attachment figures occurs or is anticipated?

Is the fear, anxiety, or avoidance persisting, lasting at least 6 months?

Does the problem cause significant impairment in social, academic, occupational, or other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a serious problem related to fear of separation. Separation anxiety may be diagnosed when someone is extremely afraid of being separated from a particular person, persons or sometimes even a pet. It’s normal to feel different or sad when someone you love is not around. But when those feelings impair daily functioning, it may become a problem. Separation anxiety may develop after someone lost a loved one, or because someone they care about moves away. The anxiety of separation may also be related to other mental health problems, such as psychotic disorders or autism spectrum disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have a disorder related to fear of separation, you may be displaying some signs related to it. It’s completely healthy and normal to be concerned about the well-being of people that you love. But when you experience intense anxiety, sometimes in combination with panic attacks when someone you love is not around, then you may be dealing with separation anxiety disorder. If you are a parent with this disorder, you may have a very strict way of educating your children and you are likely to be over-involved. It may be useful to discuss your symptoms with your doctor to understand the underlying cause and what can be done to live a better life.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have separation anxiety disorder.