Teenage boy with social anxiety

[Pathtofuture]

My son has social anxiety problem and he is 17 years old. He has problems to mix with people and often have depression, can anyone help me

[BeKind28-]

Hello

These years as we are growing up can be very difficult as you will know and I am so sorry your Son is struggling

I think the best thing would be to talk with his Doctor or go with him and see what they advise at this stage some talking therapy maybe something that will help but they will tell you what they think is best x

[Princesspeach84]

Hi, I really feel you. I have teenagers and they are such a worry. I too have suffered from social anxiety when younger and it’s tough. Does he have many friends at school? Any clubs he’s interested in joining? If it’s a case of him preferring his own company, have you thought about him maybe having Asperger’s? xx

[designguy]

You might look for a therapist or treatment program for social anxiety in your area for him, it's good that you recognize he has a problem. There may also be an online program that he could benefit from.

[Jeff1943]

I think in my young day social anxiety was called shyness and nobody thought of referring such people to psychiatrists or therapists. Some are born shy, lacking in confidence, but as time passes confidence is gained, little by little. I think that regularly mixing with others despite the feeling of social anxiety is the best therapy. "Do what you fear and the death of fear is assured!" said a wise man once.I was shy in my teenage years, now my wife tells me to shut up when we're in company and give others a chance to speak🤭.

[Nonnapaula]

My heart goes out to you. My Grandson has just turned 16 and also has the same symptoms as your son so I know something of what you are going through. My Grandson was (is?) self harming which was a wake-up call to my daughter and son-in-law as they had no idea what was wrong, he hid it so well! He was eventually unable to go to school due to his panic attacks.

They eventually managed to take him to their GP doctor who referred him for Councelling - the waiting list was long but, between making sure he was safe at home and keeping calm around him, they managed. He is now in Counselling and on anti-depressants - it is a long road to recovery but the first baby steps have been taken! His Counsellor said there were a lot of teenagers in the same situation , mainly due to Covid - being at home for so long and not socialising with others has caused many to insulate themselves and feel they can’t cope with people around them, including other students!

Good luck with your Son - remember, there is help out there! All the best.