jlr58 I'm sorry that your son is having trouble but it is great that you recognize that something serious may be going on rather than just chalking it up to a "phase" he is going through or something. If it turns out to be not that serious then no harm, no foul in making sure that is the case. If there is something more serious, as there does seem to be from your description, then it is the best of situations to find out what is wrong early on. I've learned that many of the people that I've met with depression or bipolar disorder were diagnosed later in life, but once diagnosed, realized that it was something they suffered from for much of their life. While it is never too late to get help, it is sad that sometimes it goes on for so long untended because of stigma or lack of information.

You should not feel at all guilty. I know it is natural to blame ourselves. But try to listen to the others here who will tell you the same, as Ozzie has already done, and hopefully you won't believe you are to blame for very long. The important thing is that you are getting him the help he needs. I think it is an excellent idea to get a "second opinion," the therapist he is currently seeing may just not be "clicking" with him. It also may take some time for him to open himself to the possibility of feeling better. That loss of hope is a part of depression.

Keep trying with him. Having someone supportive and understanding in his life gives him an excellent chance the the "life he has ahead of him" will be a positive and happy one. Good luck, and keep posting here for more information and opinions as well as support for yourself through this.

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--http://www.idexter.com