Thanks @Beingme2017, special time is limited because he makes very few appearances. However, he used to enjoy cooking with me and maybe I could try every now and then to get him to help with with something in the kitchen. This idea is a good reminder of alternative things to try.
... View more
Hi @Ngaio-RO, he does have connections with virtual gaming but not with any "real friends" nobody comes over and he doesn't connect via phone or any other source with any body else. I believe he does not see this as an issue however, I do because social interaction is important to health.
... View more
Hi @Beingme2017 this is rant I have often. I have three sons, 20, 18 and 16. The 20 year old is now just showing signs of being more social with me and other adults. Proof that it can get better! However about two years ago I attended a free "positive parenting course" held in the local community center. I really was at the end and decided I needed some outside help. It was the best thing I ever did, I received life skills for dealing with teenagers which keeps me sane and the whole family benefits. Hope this can be of assistance.
... View more
Thanks @Ngaio-RO for helping out with research. There are times when I feel I can talk to him and will take your advice. This may take many attempts but I will persist and not give up.
... View more
Hi @Debbr29, I sympathize with you and feel your pain. You seem to be doing all the right things, keep writing him letters, he needs to know you will always be there. It must be hard for your daughter also. I have experienced a similar situation and the heartache and pressure on other family members is enormous. If it helps, in my experience the person who left home did return after three years.
... View more
Excellent advise @TOM-RO thank you. If only he would agree to go to counselling. I have mentioned this several times to him. I think (he hasn't said it) he is a bit frightened of telling any one how he actually feels in case he is forced to be hospitalised again which was a traumatic experience for him. I get that sometimes the type of language used can be helpful. Any tips in this department? With regard to surfing it appears he enjoys it however, my husbands details how he never shows emotion during this activity. He Just wants to surf and then come straight home, so the interaction is quite limited.
... View more
My 18 year old son has not left his room for three years. After experiencing drug induced psychosis at 15 he was cared for by youth mental health. However, once he turned 18 they dismissed him from their care and he has refused to seek help. He does make an appearance at meal times and will go surfing with is father about once a fortnight. I am anxious about his physical, mental and social well being and his future. I have limited the internet hours in the hope that he may find some other creative activity to fill his time, hopefully get bored and decide to get some paid work. This has not worked so far. I do worry that he has neurological damage and unfortunately at this time there is no way of find out. He does not seem depressed or anxious and is quite happy to stay in his room all day. Has anyone experienced this type of behaviour?
... View more