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Helping son to function again

NAS69982

Hi

17year old son finally received asd diagnosis this week. 

He struggled through school despite being intelligent. Started college dropped before end of first term. Since then he has basically been in his room. No friends. Games online. Doesn’t go outside for months at a time. Covid made no difference to him. 

My question is how do I help him to unpack himself and able to explore the world again? It makes me so sad to see him now. As a young boy he was full of energy and enthusiasm for any task or activity you put him in front of. 

Your experiences and thoughts really welcome. 

Clara

  • Thanks Jules. 

    I have tried to do all of that. Give him space and time. Letting him know it’s all ok. Encourage his hobbies but blocks everything out. Says no to everything. Turns day into night gaming online. 

  • Hi Clara - the diagnosis alone can be quite alot to process, so he will likely need time to work through the aha moments of why his life has been difficult or “different” in the past. Reminding your son that the diagnosis doesn’t prevent him from following his dreams and goals in life, but merely alters how these might be achieved ultimately. Apart from letting him know that you love and support him, encouraging his interests and talents is important. The future can be pretty amazing if he’s encouraged to follow his dreams and interests. Make time to watch movies together, listen to music, encourage learning of instruments or writing ... whatever makes him feel alive and included more in life. Depression & Anxiety are very common with the diagnosis, so giving him things to look forward to might be of help too. You might want to encourage him to join a support group as he may find common ground with others in similar circumstances. Online has its pros and cons of course, Hope both you and your son will come to enjoy life post-covid.