Is he at home all day? or does he go to any kind of a preschool? When he visits relatives, is he the only kid there?
Not knowing the answers to above, I would guess that he is having troubles saying how he feels. There actually are some very good books aimed at his age group which are meant to be read aloud to them (many times) and practiced. Plus, its a great bonding time at bed time. Check out this book and other like it listed on the link. And get back to me on my questions. The book is "When I feel sad" and can be found here....
https://www.amazon.com/When-Feel-Sad-Way-Books/dp/0807588997/ref=pd_sbs_14_4?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0807588997&pd_rd_r=J7YPBCJT6MEAD3WCPS86&pd_rd_w=fqrGr&pd_rd_wg=OQDFp&refRID=J7YPBCJT6MEAD3WCPS86&th=1
Hope this helps. Best wishes.