My friends son says hes having "bad" thougts

My boyfriends13 year old son says he has been having  bad thoughts of hurting his family and himself. He is having trouble sleeping and has said he is having "memories" he cant stop. He knows the thingsin the memories didnt happen but he still keeps seeing them. I asked what the "memories are about but says they are just random things. This began a little over a week ago. He says it helps to talk to us but he is still having the thoughts. What can this be and what could have caused it? He is on holiday from school and I am worried about what will happen when he has to go back to school.This usually laid back, sweet boy has changed. He cries all the time and is so distressed. Its breaking my heart.  Please help me.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

He should be evaluated by a mental health clincian right away. Several conditions can bring about these symptoms. Don't sit on this and hope it goes away - he needs help. If you don't know where to turn, ask his pediatrician for a recommendation. Or call the number (for mental health services) on the back of his insurance card. You can also seek help at  the emergency room of your local hospital, but try the first two options first.