Swdan- he’s had some kind of talking therapy via his GP but doesn’t think it helped him. I think I need to go to his next appointment with him if he will let me. I’m feeling a. It out of my depth in terms of advice I can give him so just need to support him until I learn more about his issues. Thanks for the advice.

Thanks Colin – this is all helpful advice.
I think the fact that I now know has helped a lot as he talks quite openly about it with me. I just feel bad that he was suffering in silence for the majority of his late teens.

Yes was thinking that myself…wether he’d agree to me coming along might be a challenge.
Thanks.

Hope I’m ok jumping on this thread….
My 20 yr old son recently told me he’s been taking anti-depressants from the age of 16. I had no idea, he doesn’t live with me but I see him most weekends. I thought he was just going through a phase i.e quiet, reserved etc. Was gutted that no-one told me but that’s a different story.
His treatment seems to consist of going to his GP and getting more tablets and he now thinks they are not working like they did. He has a god job as an apprentice joiner but has now started taking time off because he says on some days he physically can’t face the thought of getting out of bed and going to work. I managed to talk him into going on an MTB ride last weekend like we used to do when he was younger and it seemed to perk him up.

I want to help him get the right treatment and will pay whatever it costs but I’m not sure how to move forward with this. Can he ask his GP for a referral? Do I just bite the bullet and find a private counseller myself?
I think I might have to take control of this as he seems reluctant to challenge his GP.

Any advice welcome.

Thanks

Place has been taken
Thanks to James for the donation to the Mike Hall just giving page.

Any interest?