DEAR ABBY: Because of frustration with our state's substantial COVID restrictions and our teen son's struggles with remote learning, we moved to another state. At the time, our son was excited to move (we kept asking him to make sure). However, we are now nearly through the school year and he still hasn't made new friends. He's depressed and wants to move back.
He plays a sport and has a part-time job, but neither have helped. My husband and I love it here. In fact, our son loves everything except his lack of a social life (beyond texting, FaceTiming and playing video games with his old friends).
We work from home, so it would be an option for us to temporarily return so he can finish his remaining two years of high school in our original state. He has always been very social, so we are surprised he hasn't made new friends. Should we push him to keep trying? Or is moving back for two years the best for his (and our) mental well-being? -- WANTS THE BEST FOR HIM
DEAR WANTS: Moving during one's teens isn't easy, particularly because cliques have already formed. Before packing your bags, talk with your son's teachers and counselors about why he has had problems integrating there. They may be able to offer some important insight.
However, if they cannot do that and you are prepared to make the move when the school term is over, do it. Being treated as an outcast isn't good for anyone's mental health, and while it might benefit your son to learn to adapt, he might do better academically if you put him in a friendlier environment.