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Depressed DS. Also PTSD/dissociative disorder?

3 replies

Mondayname · 28/02/2022 09:52

My DS had a sort of breakdown after his younger sibling had a serious health crisis a few years ago. He recovered, after some CBT, but it left him very emotionless -- he calls it feeling "bland". He was still able to function, have friends, get good grades etc so we hoped that it would just get better gradually.

He's now in his second year at uni and has been suffering from depression for over a year. Put on ADs by the home GP but after a very brief consultation -- he was a temporary patient as still registered at uni but at home at the time.

His friends phoned me yesterday because they are very worried about him. They feel the depression is getting much worse and they don't know how to help him.

He struggles to express his feelings but I know he has them, albeit very buried. I am desperately worried about him but don't know what I should be doing. He's going to see the GP and get his ADs increased. He is very resistant to more talking therapies but has agreed to see a psychiatrist. His course is very intense/stressful so that doesn't help, but he doesn't want to leave, although I've suggested that's an option if he would like.

The only symptom he has of dissociative disorder, as far as I know, is a sense of being detached from his emotions so maybe I shouldn't armchair diagnose. But I would be really grateful for any insights in to how I can support him.

OP posts:
BigGreen · 28/02/2022 09:56

Would he allow you to contact his course tutor? It would be very helpful for uni to know. While mental health services at unis do vary some are fabulous- could he get counselling or support via uni?

Are you able to make regular visits to him? I'd want to see him and the friends in person to try to gauge the situation. It's so much harder in the phone.

Mondayname · 28/02/2022 10:41

Yes I’ve been in to touch with course tutor who is very kind and helpful. Unfortunately he is very resistant to counselling. I am going to see him today and hope to understand what’s going on a bit better.

OP posts:
Miracle29 · 28/02/2022 21:54

People with depression can be quite good at not showing their true emotions and also isolating themselves at times. You are doing all you can and the best thing is to tell him you support him and your there whenever he needs you. Keep in contact with his friends and tutor for updates when hes at uni. His friends sound very caring and that's brilliant he has support whilst being at uni. Wpuld he be open to coming and staying with you for a break maybe? Sending lots of virtual hugs.

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