Struggling with autistic son.

[Gilmour15]

I have a 17 year son who was diagnosed with autism and adhd when he was 10. He went to mainstream school and left with a couple of GCSEs. He started college but couldn't manage the course so switched to a course to help develop life skills. He is part of the scout movement so he does regular activities with them but he has no friends. It's been a long summer and it has just hit me about the challenges that he/we will face. To get a part-time job is a challenge and I'm having to manage the entire process. All he generally speaks about are his obsessions so I understand why friendships are challenging. He is a kind boy so I feel guilty that I get irritated that I can't have a conversation without him interrupting to talk about his obsession. Social situations can be stressful. I don't know why I've posted this. 😕 Can anyone relate? I feel a lousy parent atm.

Is DS receiving any support? Does he have an EHCP? Have you had social care assessments?

We're in Wales. He has an IDP and support through college time.

Does the IDP include support for social skills, preparation for adulthood and any therapies?

It includes support for adulthood and social skills. No therapies. I've bought a book to help him with his social skills but he argues with me when reading it. We take him to Parkrun and the gym which he enjoys. His conversational skills are limited to whatever subject he chooses.

It sounds like you perhaps need a review of the IDP and to request social care assessments so DS has more support. Maybe things would be better received from a PA who is more his age and not his DM.

I'll look onto that. Thank you.

Some areas have youth groups for teens with additional needs. If DS would go, it is worth checking if there is anything locally.