5 Signs Of Separation Anxiety, Not Neediness

5 Signs Of Separation Anxiety, Not Neediness

Do those around you frequently refer to you as needy? When someone you love leaves, even for a short time, do you experience any unexplainable fear? If the answer is yes, separation anxiety may be a problem for you.

Extreme worry over being cut off from family members or those we consider to be a source of safety and connection is known as separation anxiety. When you hear the phrase "separation anxiety," you might picture a little child sobbing as their parents drop them off at school for the first time. However, adults can also experience separation anxiety. An estimated 43% of those who suffer separation anxiety do so beyond the age of 18, according to The American Journal of Psychiatry.

Unfortunately, this illness is frequently misunderstood and stigmatised, and those who have it are generally dismissed as being "needy."

Here are five signs that separation anxiety, not neediness, is the problem.

1. Fear Of Being Lonely

Is your greatest dread being alone? Do you frequently visualise situations in which your lover leaves you or your pals stop hanging out with you? The greatest dread of those with separation anxiety is being alone. Even if they have a large number of friends, a supportive family, and a happy partnership, they could still be terrified of loneliness. Even though their loved ones may reassure them that they are never alone, the dread of being abandoned is frequently greater.

It's crucial to understand that this worry is distinct from the typical loneliness that everyone experiences occasionally. According to Yale Medicine psychologist David Klemanski, when this unease feels out of control or causes a lot of suffering, it's an indication that it needs to be addressed. This might imply that your anxiety or panic attacks are making it difficult for you to sleep, focus, or carry out your regular tasks because of your dread of being alone.

Keep reading if you're interested because we'll explain where this dread originates later.

2. Symptoms Of Depression

Adults with separation anxiety were shown to have higher levels of melancholy, stress, and neuroticism as well as larger daily functioning deficits, according to a study published in the journal BMC Psychiatry. Do you think you could be displaying any depressive symptoms? If you want to be sure, you may view this video.

You should consider when such symptoms arise since, of course, having depressed symptoms doesn't always indicate that you have separation anxiety. Are you typically depressed at home by yourself? when a close friend or family member departs for a few days? When are you travelling for pleasure or on business? It may be a sign that you're having problems coping with loneliness if your symptoms get worse while you're separated from or away from some individuals.

3. Fear Of Harm Coming To A Loved One

Concern about the people we care about is normal. As they're out having fun, they could worry about their kids, or when they're driving home, they might worry about their pals. This worry, though, can be there all the time if you have separation anxiety. You may be concerned that something dreadful may happen to your loved ones despite your best efforts to stop your mind from racing. You're hesitant to leave their side in part because of this. If you don't get rid of this phobia, it could affect your daily functioning and general quality of life. Seeking help from the people you are afraid of may be a good idea. Them might be able to guarantee that you won't need to worry as much since both you and they will be OK.

4. Sleepless Nights With Thoughts Of Exclusion

If you are dealing with separation anxiety, all of the things we've discussed thus far might affect your ability to sleep. You could start experiencing nightmares if those worries of rejection or abandonment don't sometimes leave your brain, not even for a moment. Your loved ones can abruptly go, your partner might leave you, or you might dream that you are lost and alone. Have you ever experienced a dream like this? What was the topic?

This symptom can be challenging to manage since it not only reduces the quality of your sleep but also increases your risk of developing insomnia. To avoid having terrible dreams, you could be too terrified to even go to sleep.

5. Physical Signs

When you have to be away from the people you care about, how do you physically feel? Do you experience any bodily discomfort, such as headaches or stomachaches? These kinds of symptoms are typical among separation anxiety sufferers. You could feel physical discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and lightheadedness as a result of extreme stress. Separating from people may cause these symptoms, and if they do, it may be challenging for you to carry out your daily activities properly.