Missing someone and disabling fear are different
Ordinary attachment, homesickness and concern for a loved one are part of life. Separation anxiety disorder is a clinical concern involving fear around separation that is out of proportion and affects functioning. Its diagnosis is not limited to people whose symptoms began in childhood.
A clinician can distinguish separation-related anxiety from other anxiety conditions, grief or difficulties in a relationship. This page cannot establish the cause of distress or tell a family which diagnosis applies.
Living across countries as an adult
Family members may live in different countries, travel for work or spend part of the year away. Describe whether fear of being apart leads to avoiding travel, difficulty being alone or repeated attempts to check that someone is safe. These circumstances do not prove that moving to Spain caused an anxiety condition.
In an initial enquiry, focus on how daily life is affected and whether you already receive professional support. You do not need to include another person's private information or medical history.
Children need age-appropriate assessment
Separation distress can be a normal part of development in younger children. Persistent or worsening anxiety that affects school, family life or friendships should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional. Adults' and children's support needs are not interchangeable.
Under-18s can receive sessions with written parental consent. Consent and safeguarding arrangements must be agreed before a session takes place. This permission requirement does not establish that TRT is suitable for every child or that the team provides child psychology or specialist assessment. Parents should seek appropriate clinical advice about significant difficulties.
Discussing TRT support in English
TRT is a separate stress and anxiety recovery approach using the Human Stability Framework, guided materials and practical work in everyday life. An enquiry can establish what you want to work on and whether this form of support may fit. It is not a diagnostic appointment or a promise to treat every condition described in this guide.
One-to-one sessions can be arranged via Zoom, FaceTime, or in person at Oliva Nova or nearby. People along the Valencia–Alicante coast can enquire about online support without being athletes or members of a club. Tell us about any existing care so that a different approach is not mistaken for a replacement. Do not stop prescribed treatment on the basis of this page.
Questions, answered
A little more clarity.
Can separation anxiety disorder occur in adults?
Yes. The clinical classification is not limited to childhood onset. A qualified professional must assess whether the diagnosis applies to a particular adult.
Is homesickness after moving to Spain a disorder?
Not automatically. Missing people and adjusting to change are not by themselves a diagnosis. Seek assessment when fear or distress significantly affects life.
Does parental consent guarantee a child's suitability for TRT?
No. Written consent is required under18, but suitability and safeguarding still need discussion. We do not advertise specialist child psychology through this guide.