Concerned Mother: Son keeps taking MCs, lies on couch and watches videos the entire day
Dear Agony Aunt,
I am a mother of a 15-year-old son who is currently studying in a secondary school. I am reaching out because I am deeply concerned about his well-being. Lately, he has been constantly claiming that he is unwell, taking medical certificates from the doctor, and skipping school.
Whenever he’s at home, he spends the entire day lying on the couch, engrossed in watching videos on social media platforms. I have noticed that he doesn’t show much interest in his studies either. I am worried that this pattern of behavior is affecting his education and overall growth.
I am at a loss about how to handle this situation and would appreciate any advice or guidance you can provide.
Thank you,
A Concerned Mother
Dear Concerned Mother,
I can understand your distress regarding your son’s situation. It’s indeed concerning to see a young person constantly avoiding school and showing disinterest in their studies. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly.
Firstly, it’s essential to have an open and supportive conversation with your son to understand what might be troubling him. There could be underlying reasons such as bullying, academic challenges, or mental health issues that are causing him to behave this way. It’s crucial to assure him that you are there to support him and that seeking help is a brave and necessary step towards his well-being.
Additionally, it might be beneficial to engage with his school teachers or counselors to gain insights into his behavior in the school environment. They might have observations or concerns that can provide valuable information to address the situation effectively.
Encouraging him to pursue activities that interest him outside of school, and providing positive reinforcement for his efforts, can also help in motivating him to engage in more productive behavior.
Lastly, expressing empathy and patience while working through this challenging time is vital for maintaining a healthy relationship with your son. Seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist could also be beneficial in providing support to both your son and your family.
Remember, addressing these issues with love and understanding can make a significant impact. I wish you and your son all the best, and I hope that this situation improves soon.
Warm regards,
Agony Aunt