I'm 17 years old, a guy, and I recently met a 19 year old online friend via voice chat. We had only been chatting for five minutes when he confessed that he had a crush on a boy, which was accidentally overheard by his mom. The next thing I know, the mother and son were arguing, and his mom told him to hang up the phone, saying she wanted to talk alone. As I listened on this side of the phone, he hastily explained that we were just discussing my girlfriend, but the argument still didn't stop. His mom obviously heard what was going on. I hung up because I really didn't know what I could say. (I'm kind of kicking myself for hanging up on someone, right? Feeling a little weak.) Now I'm worried about him and I don't know if I should send a message to ask, but it's his family business after all, and I feel like I got into a confrontation because I was talking to me, so I don't really know what to do.
Hi, building owner! I'm Whale Social Worker Koboku.
First of all, a big hug to you! I can totally relate to what you're going through right now. From your description, it seems that when you suddenly encountered this situation while voice chatting, you didn't know how to react and chose to hang up the phone which might actually be a good thing for the other person because it avoids hearing more private conversations and protects his privacy. But on the other hand, he might be worried if you don't understand him either or have an opinion about him.
So, if you are relieved, take the initiative to send a message to care about his emotions. He may have suppressed it for a long time, and it's hard to express such emotions easily, whereas it's often easier to open up between online friends. You can be a listener, let him talk out, so he may be easier, you can also help him. Of course, if he doesn't want to talk about it, don't press him any further, lest you appear to be prying for privacy.
All the best to you! --Little North, the whale social worker 🐳