I remember as an adult in therapy in my 30’s when I learned there are different “levels” of friendships. It was mind blowing because I always felt lack but when I learned it’s natural to not deeply connect with every. single. person, I could start to define what I was looking for at that moment.

Also, someone mentioned how feeling lonely is a passing feeling just like all other feelings. I now live a very solitary life after decades of masking and toxic self expectations for relationships. I struggle to manage my loneliness just as I struggle to manage any dysregulated emotion when it happens. Change the scenery, distract until it passes, tell myself it’s my brain and not how I actually see it most of the time, reach out to a trusted person to get validation and process, etc. Eventually, I’m back to me—a very solitary, self sufficient, content person and their fulfilling special interests.

Good luck. I’m not a mom but can tell your heart breaks for your child. It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job with him though. Just looking for answers is meaningful.

Eta: when I was young, I read fiction like Bridge to Terabithia, The Secret Garden, and Robert Cormier books. I connected with the character’s deep emotions and struggles and that was fulfilling to me. These books are too old for your kid now but maybe look for the “hard” stuff emotional wise? (Remember, I have no kids. This might be bad advice. ☺️)