Sarina's new headspace satellite office has officially opened to provide health services to young people aged 12 to 25.
headspace Mackay centre manager Carmen Davey said the Sarina community and wider region had welcomed the new service with open arms.
"We're really excited to be officially opening headspace Sarina," Ms Davey said.
"While we have been putting the final touches and getting the final approvals on the building, headspace Sarina's mental health clinicians have already been working out of the headspace Mackay building to meet need for mental health support for Sarina's young people.
"The services and supports delivered by headspace Sarina will make a huge difference to young people in Sarina and ensure they can get appropriate support close to where they live.
"The community has been so enthusiastic and has welcomed us with open arms."
NQPHN CEO Robin Whyte said the new headspace satellite in Sarina will assist community members to receive the right care, in a local setting, and when they need it.
"Mental health is the single biggest health issue facing young Australians, so it is essential that we develop services that are able to identify problems as early as possible and provide effective responses to young people at risk of mental health and related issues," Ms Whyte said.
"The new headspace satellite in Sarina has been designed in consultation with local stakeholders to ensure the service is relevant, accessible, and highly effective.
"We are proud to work collaboratively with NAPHL and headspace to bring this service to Sarina, to help northern Queenslanders live happier, healthier, longer lives."
headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said 75 per cent of mental health disorders emerged before the age of 25.
"The past twelve months have been incredibly hard for many young people and that's why headspace is here, to support young people and get them back on track," he said.
"We're incredibly proud to provide that support at headspace Sarina and we encourage any young person experiencing a tough time to get in touch for help."
The headspace Sarina service model and building has been developed in consultation with the Sarina community, including a Youth Reference Group made up of young people from Sarina and a Steering Committee made up of local individuals and organisations passionate about supporting the community's young people.
