Forming healthy attachments starts in childhood, and if someone is not raised with good connections, they may experience problems later in life. People with a history of traumatic childhood experiences like abuse, neglect or abandonment can struggle to build and maintain relationships. In some cases, these people develop a pattern of insecure attachment that can manifest as anxiety or risky behaviors in romantic relationships.
The term “what is attachment disorder” refers to a variety of mental health conditions related to insecure attachment patterns. Two of the most common attachment disorders in adults are reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and dismissive-avoidant attachment style disorder (DSED). These disorders can be identified with a psychiatric evaluation, which includes a physical exam and blood tests to rule out any medical causes for symptoms. A mental health professional will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria to diagnose a person with RAD or DSED.
Attachment Disorder and Mental Health: Unraveling the Connection
Symptoms of these disorders can be difficult to identify, but they often present themselves in a way that makes it hard to connect with others. They can include difficulty regulating emotions, extreme mood swings and a lack of empathy for others. In addition, they can also have problems establishing and maintaining meaningful romantic relationships.
Luckily, there are several effective treatment options for those with attachment issues. A therapist can help a person understand their own thoughts and behaviors that influence their relationships. They can also teach them coping skills that allow them to build healthier, more trusting connections with others.