1. Family Issues: Doug comes from a dysfunctional family. His father is emotionally distant and struggles with alcoholism. His mother is overwhelmed by her own struggles and often neglects Doug's emotional needs. He feels lonely and isolated, craving connection and stability.
2. Bullying and Abuse: Doug is a target for bullying at school, both physically and emotionally. This experience leaves him feeling powerless and afraid, further isolating him from his peers. He also experiences abuse at home, which adds to his sense of insecurity and fear.
3. Grief and Loss: Doug is struggling to cope with the recent death of his grandfather, who was a source of love and stability in his life. The grief he feels is overwhelming and contributes to his anxiety and depression.
4. Self-Esteem and Identity: Doug struggles with his self-image and feels inadequate compared to his peers. He is unsure of his place in the world and feels lost and confused about who he is and what he wants to become.
5. Finding Connection and Meaning: Doug searches for connection and meaning in his life. He finds solace in art and nature, but struggles to find his place in the world beyond these escapes. He longs for a sense of belonging and acceptance.
These are just some of the key problems Doug faces in "Okay for Now." Through these challenges, he learns to cope with his past, build resilience, and ultimately find his own path to healing and self-discovery.