FORUMS

Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.

  • 47,612Members
  • 1,358,869Posts
  • 1,400,000Visitors
Advocating for change

my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

JMFNew Contributor

my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

first time on here... desperate for some help & direction. My 21yo son is spiralling with mental health. He is abusing drugs, alcohol and is gambling. He recently lost his job - and yesterday broke up with his girlfriend. Over the years we have tried phycologists, head space, ADHD meds (but they make him feel numb). The abuse gives him a temporary "high" then he crashes. I'm a single mum but have a very supportive partner and ex. Were do I start? how can I help him? I'm terrified where this is heading....

3 replies

1 - 3 of 3
1

In response to: my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

hopeful_hannahModerator

Re: my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

Good morning @JMF

Welcome to the SANE forums. I am sorry to read about this situation with your son. My heart goes out to you as a mother, I can imagine how gut-wrenching it must be trying to work out how to help your boy.

I know you mentioned you have tried psychologists and things in the past, but it sounds like it might be a good idea to explore those pathways again. It would be great if he would go to the GP with you to have a chat about seeing a psychiatrist and/or psychologist for potential assessment and medication support.

Have you got any supports in place at all? It might be good for you to connect with some services to support you as you navigate this situation with your son.

SANE has a free program called the Recovery Club. You might like to sign up for that and take advantage of the one-on-one sessions to have a chat with a facilitator and maybe brainstorm some ideas.

You can use the sessions to discuss whatever you need with someone who will hold space for you and listen. Here is the link to the information and registration page: Welcome to SANE’s Recovery Club

I am sure other member will jump in to welcome you and offer support.

Thank you for sharing here so openly and honestly, we're glad you're here with us.

Sending you all my best.

hopeful_hannah.

In response to: my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

Misty7Senior Contributor

Re: my 21yo son is spiralling - not sure what to do

Hi @JMF

Sorry to hear that your son is spiralling. It sounds like he is self medicating or has addictive tendencies. Usually when someone does this they are using it to numb feelings or as a way to cope but it could also be an addictive personality. These are all addictions. Are you able to talk to him and ask him how you can help? The sooner he can get help the better. Is he open to getting help?

1 - 3 of 3
1

SANE Forums is published by SANE with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health.

SANE Forums does not provide crisis support.
If you need immediate assistance, please see available crisis services.

Learn more about SANE and SANE services at sane.org

Back to top
SANE logo
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care NSQDMH Accreditation logo

Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.

Donate Now
Aboriginal flag
Torres Strait Islander flag
LGBT flag
Transgender flag

SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

Back to top
SANE logo
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care NSQDMH Accreditation logo

Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.

Donate Now
Aboriginal flag
Torres Strait Islander flag
LGBT flag
Transgender flag

SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

SANE is a public company limited by guarantee and registered tax-exempt charity with DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status.

Charity ABN 92 006 533 606. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. SANE, PO Box 1226, Carlton VIC 3053.