My 16 year old has no real friends.

[SonnyHoney]

He has a small friendship group, And acquaintance type friendships. He couldn't wait to leave school this year, He had so much planned Trips out, Cinema, Swimming etc.

He has been out twice, Since he had his last day of school two months ago. He regularly ask's his "Friends" if they want to do anything. Always too busy. He is always in his room

The other day he said to me he wishes he was back at school as every day is the same.

So I when I'm not working I over compensate in trips to the theatre, Bowling, Indoor skydiving just to make him feel he's not alone.

I feel so sad when I see groups of boys out having a good time Fishing, Riding bikes, Playing Basketball in the local park, Or even just having a McDonalds .

He has a little job, And he is looking for more work.

What could I do to help him ? I know he is practically a man, but every week that goes by I've noticed his confidence gets smaller & smaller.

Thanks In Advance, A worried mum.

That’s so sad OP. Do you know any of the parents of his friendship group that you could speak to and maybe they could include him more. Is he into football could be join a club?

He needs to learn to make friends. Does he have any SEN?

Maybe he'd be better doing a course than going to work? Is he not more likely to meet people his own age then?

Hi OP , I struggled with friends was bullied . University was a real turning point and I now have lots of friends! My DB was the same actually, not bullied but didn't make proper friends until later.

Can he join any clubs to try and make friends away from school?

What is he doing for 6th form? He might meet some new mates in September. It’s hard with social media as everyone can see what people are up to & they know they’re missing out. Can he find another job to make more cash over the summer & possibly meet more people?

I feel for you…..it’s hard when they are lonely. Not having friends doesn’t mean he’s unlikeable, he needs to know this. However, it does mean you haven’t met the right people for you, yet.

Could you get him on a course, say cookery or drama, sailing or paddle boarding? Or find out if there are any volunteering opportunities near you that he could try? It might not be things that immediately appeal to him but it will be something different and you never know who you might meet.