I think my son is depressed at school, what should I do?
My son went away to college last year and he just doesn't seem himself when he comes home. I think he is depressed but I don't know how to approach him. Any suggestions?
Troubled Mom Thu 23rd of March 2006
That's a tough one. Do you already have a strong relationship with him? Are you close to each other? Can you talk openly?
a friend Thu 23rd of March 2006
Yes, we get along OK, but I don't think he wants to talk to me, he's very stand-offish.
Mom again Thu 23rd of March 2006
Often kids have not been trained to do as much as they are asked to do for themselves when they get to school. As a result they are under new stress on top of everything else and they start to buckle. They look to where it was always made better, back home.
I sugest encouragement through acknowledgement. " I can imagine it is tough I do not know what to tell you."
And go on as if it will work out alright. Belive me if it doesn't you will be on the short list to know.
Rob Thu 27th of April 2006
Communication is key. If he is standoffish as you say then maybe you should write to him. It will give you the opportunity to tell him how you feel about what you see and ask for information so that you can understand it. It also will give you an opportunity to let him know that you love him and care about his life.
