Mental Disorders...?

Question

...I was wondering if i possibly had separation anxiety because every time i leave my parents or one of my siblings to go somewhere...anywhere, like places with my friends and stuff i feel really guilty [I'm 15...sophomore in hs]

Like they want me to go places with my friends and stuff sometimes...like 15 year olds do...but it makes me feel really guilty and i cant really have a good time

even when my parents go to work i miss them ...

do you think i have it ... and how can you treat/cure it?

Answer 1

I don't think you have separation anxiety - you may have a few symptoms of it, but that need for attachment isn't quite persistant or strong enough.  People with separation anxiety will be in tears (or at least in distress) every time the subject of their attachment (a significant other, mother, or father) leaves.  Then, when the subject of the attachment is gone, they worry constantly that the person will never come back, or will fret what may happen if the person dies.  When the person comes back, then the person with separation anxiety will continue worrying that something may cause them to be apart, or that the other person might die.  The individual won't be able to go to sleep without the subject of their attachment in close proximity to them, and they often have dreams about the attachment leaving.

So, obviously, I don't think your circumstance is quite that severe or persistent.  However, feeling uncomfortable that your parents are leaving is still a part of normal anxiety experienced by many teenagers.  Probably the best thing to do is cognitively reassure yourself when you are separated from your parents that you will see them again and that they love you a lot, so they don't want to be away any more than you do.  If they carry cell phones, maybe you could periodically call them just to "check up" with them (perhaps not when they are at work, but in other circumstances) if that helps you to feel better.

Answer 2

I guess the lack of answers here means people here aren't sure.  Me neither, but if you go see your doc he might know or give you a referral to someone that does.  I can see how it could cause some problems in your life.  Good luck.