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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Depression > Worried about lonely son
Posted on: 08/17/2011
Question
My 15-year-old son been secretive and lonely, sitting in his room all the time and won't tell me anything about his life at school. We moved recently to Melbourne and I was thinking that these changes are the cause of that and it will go away but it took longer than I expected and he is still withdrawn and lonely, doesn't have friends, and is not interested in any out of school activities. What can I do to help?
Answer
It sounds like you are unsure whether your son is adjusting to the move to Melbourne, and seems lonely because he hasn't made friends in this new place, or whether he might have a more serious problem that keeps him isolated. When a teenager won't talk to you, his parent, it's natural for you to worry about his well being. You might start by talking with him, and sharing your observations and concerns about him seeming lonely and withdrawn. If talking things through doesn't work, and if your son continues to seem withdrawn and lonely, you might consider professional help. To find a qualified child and adolescent mental health professional, you might talk with your or your son's doctor, teachers, school counselors, religious counselors, local mental health association, hospital, or outpatient mental health services. You may wish to interview a few possible mental health professionals to be sure their approach suits your son's needs and feels right to both of you.