Feel like an awful parent. Think my son is depressed

[J333gr]

Really not sure whether I want to post this or not as I’m probably going to get loads of nasty comments. Just don’t know what to do anymore. Ds 10 is so so unhappy. So rude and argumentative. When confronted and eg has his PlayStation taken away he will uncontrollably sob and tell me how hard done by he is. Thinks I hate him etc. Obviously this has got worse with lockdown but we’ve been struggling with his attitude for a couple of years now so it’s not just for since lockdown. But I’m well aware this is making it worse. I’m finding it really really hard to get through to him. I feel so distant from him and just don’t know what to do to strengthen our bond. He’s not interested in doing anything with me when I suggest stuff we could do. Has anyone had a similar problem and found something that’s helped?

Can you game with him?

Absolutely. The first thing to do is to put firm time limits on his PS4 play - there is nothing wrong with playing PS4, but not to the exclusion of all else. Ideally, agree these rules with him, and if you can think of a way of limiting the use with technology (PS4 or wifi settings) that might well save arguments.

Next, there are games you can play together - board games and card games which are easy to learn and fun to play. I'd be happy to give you some suggestions if that helps. From my experience with my 16 year old, I wish I'd limited media use a lot earlier, while ensuring there are other things to do.