[Unbrokensoulgeron]

I have a step cousin who has recently moved back home after a rebellious phase. I do not approve or condone any of his wayward behaviour but I think I can offer some explanations and stand up for them when everybody is not giving the poor lad any breathing space.
He left school as soon as he could. He was offered an apprenticeship but he turned it down. He was evidently lacking confidence and he played the anxiety card when he needed the hardship fund when he fell out completely with both his parents. But what if he wasn't acting or using this as an excuse? What if he does have underlying self esteem issues?
My family, even after I had a breakdown still cling onto the belief that most people on benefits due to depression or mental health problems are just lazy or chancers or "bad bug^ers" or junkies or wasters etc.
But my step cousin has self harmed while drunk and has been pulled up on some minor offences by the police. The hospital referred him to a centre that helps out youngsters with their self esteem and help to find employment but he won't go.
He turned down the apprenticeship for reasons that he might not quite be able to pin point himself yet. But I think they are placing too much expectations on him or this really IS the WRONG type of job for him. I do not blame him for leaving the factory job. I nearly did the same at his age, I was lucky I got am interview for somewhere else and that prompted me to leave.

[healingme4me]

Have you had opportunity to mentor him?