Hi Angela!

Is your son a high school graduate or does he have a GED? Having a high school diploma or a GED should be his first priority over getting a job. He will not be able to find a decent job or have a solid future without one or the other.

If your son is already in college, and is doing well, he may not be able to fit a job into his schedule or feel he can do his best and do both at the moment. In this case, focus on him working full time during the summer months.

If your son is not attending school and refuses to get a job and seems very unmotivated, he could have a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety. Consider taking him in for a check up with his pediatrician or family physician first, just to rule out any health problems. The doctor will talk in private with your son and may recommend a mental health evaluation or therapy.

Everyone should have at least one thing in their life they feel they are good at doing or something they want to learn more about. Your son needs to identify what are his interests and what gives him a sense of joy or sense of purpose. A therapist or counselor is an objective party and may be able to help him identify his interests and help him set goals for his life. By taking the pressure off of yourself, and allowing your son to find his own way, you will encourage him to be an adult and make decisions for himself.

Our counselors are here 24 hours, 7 days a week to help parents who are going through some of the same issues as yourself. Please call our toll-free hotline at: 1-800-448-3000, or e-mail us at: hotline@boystown.org You will also find very helpful information on our website: www.parenting.org

Take care and best to you and your son,

Cynthia, Crisis Counselor
Boys Town National Hotline
1-800-448-30000