Reactive Attachment Disorder in Adults

Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a diagnosis that affects mostly children. It happens when a child does not have a consistent caregiver and has experienced neglect before the age of five. Some of the criteria for this diagnosis are emotionally withdrawn from their caregivers and rarely look for comfort when distressed, minimally responses with emotions with others and doesn’t socialize often, doesn’t express emotions outwardly, and may be sad, irritable or fearful during non-threatening interactions with adults.

Most times, if adjustments are made to a living situation and there is a caregiver who a child can bond with, then the child will be able to adapt. Some times, a good therapist who works with children with RAD can also heal some of the attachment problems the child experienced.

Other times, such options are not available. This can include children who move from house to house, such as when a child is in foster care or a military family. Some children simply don’t have the adults in their lives who can create and maintain bonds.

As children grow into adults, without help, RAD can impact friendships, housing situations, job stability, lack of romantic relationships, and just overall upset about life events. RAD can also lead to other issues such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.

Luckily, a therapist who is knowledgeable Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder would also be able to assist with issues with RAD. Processing trauma and learning coping skills through therapy can help with making better connections with others and to help formulate other connections to people, places and to build the person to be ready for a romantic relationship.

If you or someone you know are in the Stamford area and would like help managing symptoms of adult RAD, please call or email for a consult or to make an appointment.