Worried about little brother

LegacyUser

I am writing looking for help with a family situation. I am really worried about my younger brother (21). Over the last 5 years he has lost all of his friends, he no longer is in contact with any of them and they no longer contact him. He now spends everyday sitting watching tv in the house.

The problem seemed to begin around his 3rd year in secondary school which was the same year our Grandad died, who was the only male figure in our lives. Myself, sister and mam have encouraged him to go back do his Leaving Cert but he dropped out. He has joined various FAS and nighttime courses in education and interests but he never sees them out. The last course he attempted was almost 2 years ago now. It seems he has given up in life and is happy to sit in the house all day, everyday.

I have been really worried and have tried numerous things to motivate him such as sending him on information about courses or jobs I think he'd like and sites such as Springboard. I have been asking him to come along to concerts and the cinema which he does. I have recently moved out of the family home and am now living far away and it is bothering me more that I cannot help him.

My sister and mam don;t know what to do either. I have suggested counselling and seeing a doctor but he gets angry with me and refuses to go when I mention it to him.

I am looking for advice or if anyone has had a similar experience could you give me some helpful suggestions as to what to do?

Thank you!

ABajaninCork

I know what you mean, but unfortunately, your brother is an adult. I'm afraid you can't make him do anything. All you can do is be a supportive sister as you've done and I'm sure will continue to do.

He has to want help first. When he gets to that stage, then you can step in and help him.

Paramite Pie

Invite your brother to come stay with you for a week. It might shake up his routine a little bit... he's more likely to try something new when he's out of his comfort zone.