Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
Separation anxiety disorder is represented by excessive fear or distress when separated from attachment figures. It can significantly impact a child's daily functioning, including school attendance, social relationships, and overall wellbeing, often leading to physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches. While separation anxiety is normal in very young children, is it persists beyond developmentally appropriate stages and may require treatment such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or, in some cases, medication to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.