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Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety
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[Separation anxiety disorder]
M A Schiele1, K Domschke2,3
1Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Hauptstraße 5, 79104, Freiburg, Deutschland. miriam.schiele@uniklinik-freiburg.de.
Der Nervenarzt
|December 15, 2020
Summary
Separation anxiety disorder, now recognized in adults by DSM-5, has a 4.8% lifetime prevalence. This review covers its causes, diagnosis, and treatment for better clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Mental Health
Background:
- Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is now in the DSM-5 anxiety disorder chapter, removing childhood onset restrictions.
- SAD has a 4.8% lifetime prevalence, with onset often occurring after 18 years.
- Despite high prevalence, SAD is frequently underdiagnosed and untreated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of separation anxiety disorder.
- To discuss etiology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and differential diagnoses.
- To explore comorbidity, treatment implications, and future research directions.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- Literature search on separation anxiety disorder.
- Synthesis of information on etiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Main Results:
- DSM-5 inclusion broadens the understanding of SAD beyond childhood.
- Adult-onset SAD is prevalent but often overlooked.
- Comprehensive review covers key aspects from diagnosis to treatment.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness and accurate diagnosis of SAD in adults are crucial.
- Evidence-based treatment strategies are needed for effective management.
- Further research is warranted to improve understanding and treatment of SAD.
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