I’d just like to share this here, because I feel this is what’s most needed (and what is already happening in this thread):
Maybe you can do exactly this with the young boy you used to be - be a good kalyanamitta to him! Just be with him, tell him that you know about all the terrible things he had to face, give him a paper tissue (or 2 or 3, if needed… ), show him that you feel with him. And all the rest as beautifully described by @anon29387788!
And don’t be in a rush - these things take time! 
