Hi @SweetSon and welcome to ReachOut Parents. It sounds like there have been a lot of really hard challenges your son has had to overcome at school, and we really appreciate you reaching out for support here- definitely challenges that so many parents here can relate to, you are not alone
I want to start by saying that it sounds like your boy is incredibly resilient. Facing challenges with school, friendships and bullying are such tough things to go through at such a young age, and it sounds like you are doing everything you can to support him through. I can hear how much love you have for him, and how much you would want to help him through the remainder of his schooling
There are a lot of stressors he has been carrying on his shoulders, and I am hearing that the teen years and high school have not been easy for him. I want to offer you hope that we see from other parents, that things do change after high school, a young person's world becomes bigger and we see so many young people build on the resilience and strengths they have to find the people and the places where they are most themselves.
Have you had a conversation with your son about what he wants or needs at the moment? It sounds like friendships have been really challenging for him, are there any other support people in his life such as a mentor/family members etc who he talks to?
I am hearing your concerns about seeking professional help, and wanting to make sure your son is not labelled is something that so many parents here can relate to. At the same time, we also see on our youth forums how helpful speaking to a professional can be in helping young people find the skills and strengths to cope with the pressures of high school and friendships, and come out the other side. Even looking into the types of support, for example starting with a counsellor or at a local doctor can be really helpful. Seeking help takes so much strength, and what I am hearing from your post is just how strong, kind and resilient your son is
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