Coping!

Dear @LITAF ,

I hear you are doing what you can to cope with the 'loss' of you son. As much as he is still with you, I read that his former self is no longer there and he has retreated to himself and isolated himself.

Teenage-hood can be a struggle for many, let alone someone who has to manage the challenges that come with ASD and ADHD.

You mention he is on medication. Is this medication for ADHD or for depression/anxiety? It may be worthwhile speaking to your prescribing doctor. Struggles with emotional regulation can come with ADHD, while social challenges can come with ASD. Hence, this may all contribute to your son closing up.

Mental health does not mean you will never have your former son back. For now, it's about finding ways to support yourself through this so you can be there for your son when he needs it most.

Have you tried speaking to him about what is going on for him?

Please take care @LITAF . We are sitting with you.

Hi @LITAF @tyme

My saying is Strong people still Hurt.

So hard for you being the Strong one supporting your son, maybe advocating at doctors etc.

So time consuming.

I hope this forum gives you a bit of a break.

We all need to vent.

You sound so devoted to your son and he is lucky. Regardless of him realising.

Many we assist do not comptehend our effort.

But we care out of love.

Great to see your effort

My heart breaks for you @LITAF but it doesn't mean it's all over, although it may feel that way right now. With the right support mental health can improve and it sounds like you are going to do everything you can to support your Son. Sitting with you 💝