erotusahdistus

Erotusahdistus, also known as separation anxiety, is a psychological condition characterized by excessive fear or distress when anticipating or experiencing separation from a significant attachment figure or home. While it is a normal developmental stage for infants and toddlers, it can persist or emerge in older children, adolescents, and adults, becoming a clinical disorder.

Symptoms of erotusahdistus can vary. In children, it often manifests as frequent and intense distress when separated from parents or caregivers, including crying, tantrums, and physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches. They may refuse to go to school or sleep alone. For adults, the anxiety is typically triggered by the prospect of separation from loved ones, such as a spouse or partner, and can lead to excessive worry about their safety or well-being, nightmares about separation, and a reluctance to travel or be away from their attachment figure.

The exact causes of erotusahdistus are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition, temperament, life experiences, and environmental factors. Traumatic events, such as illness, death in the family, or significant life changes, can sometimes precipitate the onset of the disorder.

Diagnosis is typically made by a mental health professional based on specific criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5. Treatment often involves psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals develop coping mechanisms and challenge anxious thoughts. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage severe anxiety symptoms. Early intervention is generally associated with a better prognosis.