After experiencing years of drought, recent bushfires, floods and now Covid-19 it's safe to say the people of Lithgow are resilient.
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headspace Lithgow has recorded an influx of young people coming through for support after experiencing these challenging times.
"This town, the people are so resilient, they've seen so much," headspace Lithgow community engagement and in-take officer Jason Eggins said.
Mr Eggins said there was a spike in young people coming forward during the recent Spring/Summer seasons due to bushfires, but Covid-19 has eclipsed that.
"Most young people that are engaging with us at the moment are identifying certainly Covid-19 and everything associated with that, especially fear, the unknown but also the issues around work and study," he said.
He said there was concern around study for young people and their future in the employment field.
"Employment is particularly hard on young people who are just starting out and Covid adds to that pressure.
"HSC students in particular are a special kind of difficulty coming up in session here, it doesn't matter how much assurance we give, it's a natural concern," he said.
Mr Eggins said the 24-hour news cycle of Covid-19 was also contributing to the mental health of young people.
"There's a lot of information available and while most of it is helpful and informative, it can still be a lot to digest and stressful.
"Minimising exposure to social and traditional media for periods of time can be helpful, but it's also important to get your news from reputable sources like the state government," he said.
He said while it was a difficult time, there were positives that can come out of it.
"While we are going through this significant change we can take the opportunity to practice resilience, coping mechanisms and how to tolerate stresses.
"We are all going through this and we can move forward with grace despite not knowing what lies ahead, that's a real opportunity," he said.
"We like to think at headspace that this younger generation coming through, wow, what strength and resilience they can potentially bring."
Mr Eggins said it was also important to follow recommendations from health officials, something we have control over.
"While we don't have any control really over the current pandemic and none of us know what's going on really we can still wash hands, sanitise, avoid touching our eyes, nose and mouth - just simple things like that gives a young person some level of control," he said.
"It can help to talk to a trusted adult if it all feels a bit too much."
headspace Lithgow's top tips to maintain a healthy headspace during this time:
- Be mindful of exposure to information through stories, traditional and social media. It can be helpful to take a break from the 24-hour news cycle.
- Do things that make you feel safe and connected and be with those who are helpful to your well-being.
- As long as you're following government guidelines, being with friends and doing things that make you happy are excellent for your mental health.
- Engage in activities that promote a sense of calm and feeling grounded. It can help to talk with a trusted adult if it all feels a bit much.
headspace Lithgow is available if you're feeling down or if you know a young person that may be struggling.
"Drop in, give us a call or check our website. Just remember there is support out there for you, you don't have to go it alone," Mr Eggins said.
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