Here's something the research is clear on. Young people go to their mates before they go to an adult. Which means you, right now, might be someone's first call, whether you signed up for it or not. The good news: you don't have to fix anyone, and you shouldn't try. Feeling properly heard, just that, makes a real difference. One rule, though. If a mate says something that worries you, like they want to hurt themselves or they don't want to be here, you tell an adult. That's not dobbing them in. That's being the mate who showed up. So let's practise. A mate's gone quiet lately. Here's the chat. You choose what to say at each step.
Everyone feels worried sometimes. Anxiety looks different on different people, so notice with kindness and curiosity, not judgement. You don't have to fix anything.
Thoughts: Worrying about things that seem small · Lots of 'what if' and 'are you sure?' · Scared of getting things wrong
Feelings: On edge, easily startled · Upset without knowing why · Heart races, stomach feels funny
Behaviour: Pulls away, skips hangouts · Avoids places · Double-checks everything · Extra quiet, or extra loud
DO: Listen without judging · Say 'I'm here for you' · Ask 'what can I do to help?' · Check in regularly
DON'T: Try to fix their problems · Say 'just get over it' · Share their secrets · Interrupt with your own story
DON'T: Try to fix their problems · Say 'just get over it' · Share their secrets · Interrupt with your own story
You choose what to send 
Alex has gone quiet lately and bailed on the weekend. You message them.
The Science
Does a mate listening actually change anything?
