My son returned home from his mission, but he hasn't been himself. Have you had this situation ?

[Suzie]

Quote

I do have an email for his mission president, my husband thinks we shouldn't bother him though

because if something bad did happen then we would have heard.

Not necessarily. FWIW, in my very limited opinion (based on what you wrote) there are two main possibilities. One, as it was mentioned here before... mental health related issues (if this is the case, he needs to get professional help ASAP). I tend to lean towards the other possibility that something indeed happened after his second year, something serious and it is causing him to behave this way. As someone mentioned before, it will take a while for him to feel that he can trust with whatever is bothering him and this is the reason why it is crucial at this time for him to KNOW that he is loved and that nothing will change that. I wish you and your entire family all the best.

Edited January 28, 2020 by Suzie

[ctr2961]

Could it be a bad case of cultural shock? 

Common symptoms of culture shock: 

• Extreme homesickness

• Feelings of helplessness/dependency

• Disorientation and isolation

• Depression and sadness

• Hyper-irritability, may include inappropriate anger and hostility

• Sleep and eating disturbances (too little or too much)

• Excessive critical reactions to host culture/stereotyping

• Hypochondria

• Excessive drinking

• Recreational drug dependency

• Extreme concerns over sanitation, safety (even paranoia), and being taken advantage of

• Loss of focus and ability to complete tasks

 

Stages:

• Starting from the “euphoria” of the honeymoon phase
• The Impact of culture shock
• Recovery and returning culture shock(coming back from the mission).
• Recovery and adaptation