Did anyone suffer from separation anxiety as a child?

[Alpaca2884]

I did until about age 10. Then 8 years later I developed GAD and MDD. I wonder if having separation anxiety as a child increases your chance of developing an anxiety disorder and or depression as an adult?

[Catsamaze ADAA Volunteer]

Hi Alpaca. The literature I’ve read suggest that the connection is very strong. As I’ve mentioned many times on the site I lost both parents suddenly and in a terrible way at 4 1/2. Even though I was then raised by wonderful grandparents and had a great childhood, that trauma has weighed heavily on me. Because of the way I’m wired and genetics I likely would have suffered from some form of depression anyway but that early loss and the separation anxiety associated with it made it dramatically worse as I grew into adulthood. I believe that there is a very strong connection. Early psychological intervention is the best way to lessen the impact. But it’s never too late for that. Realize that your GAD and MDD are not your fault. Self compassion is something I’m still trying to develop decades later but it is stronger than any emotional illness. And unlike these illnesses it is something we can control. Work on that and with good treatment and support you will ultimately be fine, my friend!

[Alpaca2884 in reply to Catsamaze]

Hi. Thank you for responding. I’m very sorry for the loss of your parents and especially at such a young age. I’m happy that you had wonderful grandparents that raised you. I didn’t have a specific trigger. My depression/anxiety came out of nowhere. There is no family history that I am aware of. I agree with you that there is a strong connection between separation anxiety as a child and my MDD/GAD as an adult. I am on medication that has helped me significantly and I have a strong faith. I am looking into some online counseling. I’m just hoping I get someone good who understands and is helpful to me.

[Catsamaze ADAA Volunteer in reply to Alpaca2884]

Just be sure you have or develop a good connection with your therapist. If it's not there after a few visits seek out another. You might be able to tell after he first meeting. In an case, it is crucial to the emotional work you want and need to do.

[Alpaca2884 in reply to Catsamaze]

Thank you! I will definitely do my homework in choosing the right therapy.