My son has a good degree but no job or social life — what can I do?
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DEAR DEIDRE: OUR son has a good degree in economics but is socially awkward and has not found a job since leaving university.
The only thing that gets him out of the house is his twice weekly voluntary job in a charity shop.
He is now 23 and his mum and I are so worried about him. He applied for two jobs and enrolled with an employment agency but only half-heartedly.
He has no friends and has never had a girlfriend.
He sleeps until lunch-time then just plays on his computer.
I have a lot in common with him because as a lad, I too, was socially awkward. I go to the gym but he refuses to join, too. He doesn’t eat well, is very thin and has a poor body image.
His brother is at uni now and loving it which seems to make him feel worse.
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DEIDRE SAYS: Have you shared with your son how closely you identify with how he’s feeling? It would help him to know you understand.
If not the gym, is there any other interest or sport he would take part in?
He may be depressed, so urge him to speak to his doctor for advice.
Get guidance from the YoungMinds Parents Helpline (, 0808 802 5544).
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