residential treatment

[The People]

We first went inpatient in the 80s and when there was no alternative. It was helpful but was also a court of last resort. We had many visits; often felt like we were being babysat but in a way that is what we front runners needed. For someone else to be responsible for us so that we bigs could rest for a night or a week.

Times have changed however. With cutbacks inpatient 'treatment' is a joke. I have a friend whose son is in outpatients for a different dx and has done well with this form of support. He is calmer and as a result they are more of a family.

I cannot imagine what a child would be like having to go through this. (Well I do because I have a lot of angry teens) I forget how old he is but he is facing all of the changes a monomind child faces - hormonal changes etc. And what makes him stand out from the other kids. But if he is multiple he is also bright. Help him to use that as a weapoin rather than anger. So easy I know. Flick a switch! As if right! However, he needs to know that he is extraordinary and not just different.

As for the computer stuff, both of you need to know he could be charged for this. You can put parental locks on it. If he figures it out you have the option of taking it away from him. I hear the words "only friend" in my head. However, no matter how old we are, what we struggle with how bad life sucks we need to know that along with privileges we also have consequences. He needs to learn this. Not to scare you but kids get charged for this stuff. Maybe find someone in kids crime until to explain the seriousness of this to him. Not boot camp but as a friend. Or someone from a kids support network. Lots of kids do stupid things on the computer. He needs to know that it is no more fair than what he live through. The one who is doing these things (or might be) would most likely listen if it means their protection from or weapon against the world could be taken away because of what they are doing.

I admire your perseverance. Yes he is your son and you love him but it must be so hard to keep fighting. Many parents don't. I do hope you have support for you as well. A professional. Whether it be a T or a pastor or whatever works for you, support for you gives you more to give to him. Without that you will burn out IMNSHO. Take care of you. All the best with him and I mean that in the sincerest of terms.

Gabriel