Hi I'm mum of a nearly 36 son who suffers from anxiety and depression. He tells me he manages his feelings by drinking and gambling. Consequently he is in a huge amount of debt.
He goes to counselling fortnight at $190 per session and seems to really trust his counsellor, however, I feel he isn't making any progress.
I had been helping him financially for some time but since I have recently retired, couldn't see an end, so have withdrawn that support.
He has now threatened to quit his job and go on welfare so he doesn't have to service his debts.
He refuses to talk to me and will only communicate with texts as he says he can't bear to hear thw hurt and disappointment in my voice.
His father and I divorced about 10 years ago. His father also suffers from mental illness and alcoholism.
I want to be able to help, but I don't know how and while I can see how unwell he is, I feel that he is manipulating me.
I have a very supportive family who all want to help him but he's shut us all out and only approaches us for money.