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Separation Anxiety Disorder, Pediatric

Julie S. O’Brien, MD, MS and Eva C. Ihle, MD, PhD Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is defined as developmentally inappropriate fear and anxiety about being away from home and/or apart from the individuals to whom a child is most at...

DIAGNOSIS

  • Anxiety with separation is a normative part of development, typically beginning around 6 or 7 months of age, peaking around 18 months and decreasing after 30 months.

    • Normal separation anxiety...

TREATMENT

Initial treatment should include psychoeducation for the caregiver (who will need to implement changes with the child) and cognitive behavioral techniques for the child. 
  • Psychoeducation for ...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • If impairing symptoms continue for more than a month, a higher level of intervention may be indicated.

  • If medications are started for anxiety in children, monitori...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Brewer S, Sarvet B. Management of anxiety disorders in the pediatric primary care setting. Pediatr Ann.  2011;40(11):541–547. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

  • Ehrenreich JT, Sant...

CODES

ICD9

309.21 Separation anxiety disorder 

ICD10

F93.0 Separation anxiety disorder of childhood 

SNOMED

11806006 separation anxiety disorder of childhood (disorder) 

FAQ

  • Q: How do I know if it is developmentally normal separation anxiety?

  • A: When separation anxiety arises after the age of 6 years, it warrants intervention if it lasts for >4 weeks and/or is marke...

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