Hey @Mumma80 Thank you for sharing. It sounds like a stressful situation and you sound worried, rightfully so. You care about your Son a lot and he's lucky to have you.
It sounds like there are a few different things going on here and you're right that your son probably needs some support from a mental health professional, which can be difficult if he's reluctant to get that support. Has the school been able to offer you any guidance?
I'm wondering if this article here 'how to talk to your teen about vaping' would be helpful? There's also an article here 'how to talk to your teen about depression'.
It sounds like he talks to you in the car, which is understandable as it's less intimidating talking when the other person is focussed on driving. Perhaps you could pick those moments to bring up discussions about mental health and encourage him to reach out for support?
There's also parentline if you wanted to ask a counsellor for some advice. There is also headspace
If your Son is grieving, it may take some time for him to come around but I encourage you to keep trying to have those conversations. If he sees that you're not giving up on him, he might be more willing to accept help. Hang in there, it's hard.
