'I don't want to be here anymore'

It's a Tuesday, nothing special. Your 16-year-old is in their room. You knock, bring a glass of water. They're on the bed, face to the wall.

You sit on the edge. A minute passes. Another.

Then, quietly, without turning around: "I don't want to be here anymore."

Your stomach goes cold. Your brain goes fast. Did they just say what I think they said? Are they just tired? Should I ask? Should I not ask, in case I plant the idea?

You have a breath to decide.

Here's what every mental health first aider knows: asking directly does not plant the idea. It opens a door. Not asking is what leaves someone alone in there.

This module is the last in the course. It isn't a substitute for therapy or a crisis line. It's the bandage — the calm, steady thing you do in the first hour — before professional help arrives.

Three rules to carry through this whole module: ask directly, listen more than you talk, and know the number for help.