Can Teenagers Have Separation Anxiety Disorder?
“Can you have separation anxiety disorder in adolescence? My 15-year-old is acting very strange and clingy all of a sudden”

If your teenager is acting ‘strange’ it may mean that there is something going on with him. I think that it is definitely a good idea to have a chat with him to see what is going on. Tell him that if he does not want to talk to you, he could talk to another trusted adult in his life or perhaps he would agree to talk to a therapist. If he goes to school, have a chat with his teachers to see if there is anything going on at school that you may not know about.
You mention separation anxiety disorder and yes, adolescents can have it. Teenagers living with separation anxiety show signs of fear when they have to say goodbye to their parents or caregivers or just the thought of being separated from them. This anxiety can make them miss school or activities that require being away from their parents or caregivers.
I would urge you to talk to your teenager. If you are worried about him, do take him to a mental health professional.
You may find these articles useful:
What Are Your Thoughts on Anxiety Medication for Teens?
How to Help Children with their Anxiety?
How to Help a Child with Anxiety?
This masterclass may also be useful:
How to Have Difficult Conversations with your Teenager
I hope this information helps. I wish you teenager all the very best,
Love,
Ana
Qué fantástico artículo y que buenos consejos. Ha sido de una gran ayuda. Un abrazo muy fuerte
Maravilloso artículo sobre la serie Adolescentes y consejos de gran ayuda en una etapa tan complicada de nuestros hijos , tan desprotegidos frente a las nuevas tecnologías.Es una ayuda tremenda para nosotros. Muchas gracias
I'd imagine this is quite deteremental for a childs development in the long run as nothing stays the same forever, and we shouldn't really be making these categorisations, especially towards our children.
Just live life, sometimes you'll have to be the parent that's the shoulder to cry on. The week after you may have to raise your voice a little when everyone is in a rush and you're trying to get your children's shoes on.
Just balance it all out, don't be too self critical and pick up on what your child wants and needs.
Again, great writeup!
Thank you so much for your comment. I totally get what you mean. It is always difficult to have kids living with you, wanting to support them and their parents but at the same time not wanting to step in anyone's toes. If there's anything we can do to support you and your family, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Ana
Ana
sO great to have you here! Totally agree that Zara is great! What other topics would you like us to discuss?
Ana
Ana