Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Separation anxiety in children happens when they feel distressed or anxious about being away from their parents or primary caregivers. It’s most common in young children, especially between 8 months and 3 years of age. While some level of anxiety during separations is a normal stage of development, it can become a concern when it is intense, persistent, or interferes with daily life. In these cases, seeking treatment for separation anxiety can help children develop coping skills, build confidence, and feel more secure when apart from loved ones.
Every child shows anxiety differently, but common signs of separation anxiety in children include:
Crying or clinging when a parent or caregiver leaves
Complaining of physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches when separation is coming up
Fear of being alone, even in familiar places
Refusing to go to school or daycare without their caregiver
Having nightmares or trouble sleeping without a parent nearby
Excessive worry about something bad happening to themselves or their caregiver
Around 4% of Australian children aged 4-17 experience separation anxiety disorder
In 2022, the Australian Psychological Society reported a rise in separation anxiety among children aged 18 months to 5 years
Approximately 7% of Australian children aged 4-11 experience anxiety disorders, including separation anxiety
Separation anxiety is typical in toddlerhood, making it tricky to distinguish from normal developmental anxiety
Separation anxiety is more than simple clinginess. Children with separation anxiety disorder (SAD) experience intense fear about being apart from their caregivers and may worry that harm will come to them or that they’ll be abandoned. Without proper treatment for separation anxiety, these fears can affect a child’s emotional, social, and academic growth.
Research suggests that separation anxiety often begins between ages 7 and 9, but it can continue into adolescence if left untreated. Children with a family history of anxiety or those who’ve experienced major changes—like moving house or losing a loved one—are more likely to develop symptoms. Understanding these risk factors helps in tailoring treatment for separation anxiety that meets each child’s individual needs.
When exploring treatment for separation anxiety, research highlights several evidence-based approaches that have proven effective:
CBT is one of the most widely recommended and effective treatments for separation anxiety in children. It helps children identify unhelpful thoughts (“Something bad will happen if I go to school”) and replace them with more balanced thinking. Over time, they learn strategies to face separations calmly and confidently.
As part of CBT, exposure therapy involves gradually practising short separations in a safe, supportive way. These small steps help desensitise the child to their fear and reduce anxiety over time.
This structured approach involves parents working directly with a psychologist to strengthen positive communication and manage anxiety-related behaviours. It’s particularly effective for younger children, as it helps parents apply consistent strategies at home.
Relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety. These techniques are often included as part of a holistic treatment for separation anxiety.
In more severe cases where therapy alone isn’t enough, GPs or paediatricians may prescribe medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This option is typically used alongside therapy, particularly for older children or teens.
Because every child is unique, the best treatment for separation anxiety will depend on their individual circumstances. A clinical psychologist can help assess your child’s needs and recommend the most suitable approach.
*Source: Separation Anxiety Disorder – National Library of Medicine StatPearls
Start with short separations and gradually increase the time apart
Keep goodbyes brief and positive to avoid triggering more anxiety
Stick to a routine to help your child feel secure during transitions
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, holding Master’s or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We provide treatment for separation anxiety in children using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT in Children).
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
For our latest updates, subscribe below
