Here's something the research is really clear on: teens go to their mates before they go to any adult. Which means you, right now, are someone's front line, 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, measurably lowers someone's risk. 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 
DRAFT · pending clinical sign-off
Alex has gone quiet lately and bailed on the weekend. You message them.
The Science
Does a mate listening actually change anything?
