People tend to use the term “separation anxiety” very loosely.

In reality, though, separation anxiety isn’t just what you feel when you miss someone.

It’s a real disorder that affects many children and even some adults (viaMedical News Today).

woman covering face next to little boy

What makes this common occurrence adisorderis all about how long it lasts.

It’s also more prominent in a child who is older than six years old.

Therapy is always an important step when looking to obtain or get treatment for a mental health diagnosis.

scared child clutching teddy bear

Cognitive behavioral therapy can be a great choice for kids and adults with this diagnosis (viaWebMD).

Through therapy, it will become clear whether or not trying medications would be a benefit.

child points to smiley face card woman is holding