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A Mater youth mental health expert has warned that Tropical Cyclone Alfred may leave cases of ‘cyclone anxiety’ in its wake.
Mater Emotional Health Unit Nurse Practitioner Chris Leary said the cyclone – the first to hit South East Queensland in 50 years – could trigger low mood and anxiety states leading to more serious mental health issues in young adults and children if not monitored or left unchecked.
Mr Leary, who treats children as young as 14 years old, urged parents/care givers to keep an eye out for changes in their child’s behaviour, including withdrawal from social situations, agitation, increased irritability, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, and complaining about aches and pains they have never had before.
He said 24/7 media coverage of the extreme weather event could “generate anxiety and be potentially harmful” for many young Queenslanders and urged parents to make efforts to stay calm in front of their families.
“If parents were impacted by the floods in 2011 or 2022 it will be particularly hard emotionally for the parents.
“Anxious parents will result in an anxious child. If the parent is becoming unnecessarily anxious, as opposed to being concerned, the child will pick up on that.”
He advised parents to limit their child’s exposure to the internet and TV, including coverage of the post-cyclone clean-up.
“If possible, good old-fashioned board games (monopoly, card games) and other activities are great ways to distract them and take their mind off events,” he said.
“If nothing else, this will be a positive memory for the young person long after this incident has passed.
“Reassure them that they are safe and that you will get through this together, as a family and community.”
Mr Leary urged parents to keep a close eye on their children’s emotional and behavioural changes.
“Mental health is an important issue and a weather event such as this could be a trigger for many people and cause trauma. Be cautiously aware and in tune with your children” he said.
“If you find they don’t want to go to school after this event, ask them simple questions for example, ‘is there anything that you are worried about or are you worried about something happening to you at school or one of us when you are at school?”
Mr Leary said if parents start to become concerned, consider taking your child to a GP and get them assessed to see if a referral to a mental health specialist is required.
The Mater Emotional Health Unit at South Brisbane delivers dedicated, evidence-based mental health care for young adults. For more information call 07 3163 6102.
Young people and their families can find more information here: Natural disaster recovery information for youth, friends, parents & teachers
