What's going on with him?

Question

Well, I have had full custody for my little 12 year-old brother for one full month know. We are only 10 years apart, but as the story goes; lately he's starting to worry me. Before I got custody of him, I probably saw him three times a month. He is usually this fun to be around, happy, and funny kid, but now he's the total opposite. I know that something is going on but he won't tell me what. He looks like he has something on his mind, he's quiet and looks a little depressed.

Last night, I went to go check on him but he was already asleep so I covered him up, but then I noticed like a dry tear on his cheek. In the morning he didn't even eat breakfast, he just went out and played basketball.

Today, he hasn't really talked much. I was thinking that it could have something to do with the separation of his mom, but then again he really wasn't that close to her and his dad wasn't always around much. What could it be? Can someone please give me any ideas of what I can do...Thank U!

Answer 1

Please get him some professional help.  His whole life has changed and that can be dramatic for a child.  I cannot imagine what he must be going through.  Just because he wasn't close to mom and dad, doesn't mean that he don't miss them.  Find a local counselor or ask the school counselor for suggestions.

Answer 2

When my parents were having custody battles... Even though I could not stand my mom or my dad... I was sad, I kinda felt like now that I was away from my mom, that i could never get close to her. And also they was not close but he probaly feels bad for not being with his mom... If I were you.. I would maybe take him out for a fun day. Get close with him. Then that night eat dinner at home together... And ask him how he feels about not living with his parents, if he puts up a wall just keep trying. Just let him know you want him to be happy and you wanna talk so you can help.

Answer 3

I admire you incredibly for taking on this responsibility. Now  is when the hard part comes in. He is in a very fragile state right now. Im sure he is feeling all kind of emotions. Like why. Does my Mom love me? Will I have to move from here too. If I were you I would sit down and tell him how valuable he is to you and how much you love him. Let him know that you know that times are tough right now but you guys will get through it together. Let him know that you will never judge him and that all you want to do is make his life happier and easier. So if he has anything on his mind that you are he waiting. It sounds like he needs to run into your arms right now and camp out there for a little while. He needs to feel secure that no one will give up on him. I have an 11 year old boy and they are more sensitive then we think. God be with you both.

Answer 4

the change its probably hard for him. even if he didnt have a relationship with his parents he still probably misses them and his old home and room. give him time