With loss of employment, long periods of isolation, heavy school work loads, increased time on social media, loss of sleep and financial and household stress, young people are facing more strain.
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Dubbo headspace community and youth engagement coordinator Amy Mines said they had noticed an increase in the number of young men in particular engaging with their services since COVID-19 and since moving to telehealth.
"Whether this is due to more young men needing help and actually reaching out or if it is because they can now receive the help they need via phone or telehealth instead of having to walk into the centre we are unsure," Mrs Mines said.
"Either way, we are glad they are reaching out and we will be keeping telehealth services and young people will now have a choice whether they wish to have 'in-person' or telehealth appointments."
These services have always been on offer to male youth at headspace, but with the addition of two new male workers, they are hoping to see more men engaging.
The positions were opened after an increase in referrals and an expected influx over the coming months.
Errol Toomey has fulfilled the role as the new youth care coordinator and will be working with young people 12-25 years old in coordinating their care while with headspace.
"This may include referring the young person to one of the many other in-kind support services on offer within headspace such as a GP, Sexual Health Nurse, Legal Aid, Work Development Orders (to help pay off fines), Financial Counselling and Problem Gambling, Drug and Alcohol Counselling and much more," Mrs Mines said.
"Errol will also be offering some brief interventions on generalised anxiety and stress, depression and getting back into life, goal setting, healthy relationships, culture and family."
Mr Toomey said he was also always around for a chat.
"Remember that it "ain't weak to speak" and if you feel like you're struggling, no matter the issue, reach out and seek support," he said.
Todd Marr, who has also taken on the role as the new vocational specialist with the Individual Placement Support (IPS) program, will be working with young people aged 15-25 years to overcome barriers to gaining long term employment, staying engaged with education or taking up further education opportunities as well as assistance with employee advocacy and life skill supports.
The Individual Placement Support program provides intensive one-on-one support to the young person for as long as is needed before and after they are placed in employment or education.
"For me, it is about creating hope and providing the tools to assist the young person in building confidence and resilience to be able to independently overcome future barriers they may be faced with," Mr Marr said.
"That level of self-empowerment will lead towards great employment and education pathways and a bright future".
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Taylor Dodge
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
