I have found Jim Dixon's point above to be true : boys talk more easily while they're doing something else (not just boys either, but this is particularly useful for teenage boys who wouldn't talk otherwise).

Long country walks are ideal, if that works for the family in question, or a longish car drive with just the two of you. It's something about the not-looking-at-each-other-while-doing-something-else which seems to make it easier to talk.

And don't worry about the depression, Terri- if he is depressed it's a totally normal reactive depression, as would be expected in the circumstances, and it will pass. I certainly would not encourage him to take medication at this stage, unless he can't cope with life. He seems to be coping extremely well in the way he knows best- respect him for that.

Much love,

Noreen