A youth mental health provider says there has been a steady increase in the number of young people presenting with anxiety in Geraldton this year.
Headspace Geraldton manager Fiona Stewart said numbers were split evenly between males and females.
"It's unfortunate but I'm not surprised because nationally, young people are presenting into Headspace [clinics] with increased levels of anxiety, so we're not alone in that."
Ms Stewart said Tropical Cyclone Seroja and climate changes were common concerns underlying the youths' anxiety, with people as young as 12 asking for help.
"We're definitely seeing some themes around the comorbidity for young people," she said.
"Young people were trying to figure out post the cyclone … perhaps that was part of something that might keep happening for them."
She said the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted youth mental health as well.
We've obviously been very, very lucky in the Midwest, but young people are engaged with media that's really informing some of their bigger picture thoughts around what the future looks like for them," she said.
Ms Stewart said young people could lower their anxiety by looking after key aspects of wellbeing.
"For young people, having parents that really help, particularly in the holidays, of thinking around screen-use time.
"Taking up new hobbies, engaging with people are the things that really keep you well."
Border changes shouldn't impact support
The Western Australia government has announced the state will reopen its borders early next year, and Ms Stewart said help would still be available regardless of whether COVID-19 entered the local community.
"We're prepared for everything here," she said.
"We've got the tech and the will and a fantastic therapy garden to work from.
"Our service delivery may have to change mode … but our service wont change."
