Date published 26 May 2022 If you thought the pandemic was pushing more people to shop and connect online, you’d be right. Our regular deep-dive into how the pandemic is impacting West Aussies shows the jump in the use of digital apps to connect with family and friends, and home-delivery for groceries and takeaway food. Despite these ongoing changes in behaviour, the good news is that outlook is more positive among the WA community overall. Frustration is down from 28% to 20% and optimism is up from 21% to 27%. But our younger West Aussies are bearing the brunt of the emotional fallout from the pandemic and increasing pressure on the cost of living. Concerns around mental health, the WA economy and job security are all highest among the under-35s. Alarmingly, 27% say they are currently feeling overwhelmed compared to 12% of over-35s. Cost of living pressure and anxieties surrounding COVID-19 continue to dominate across all age groups, adding to the worries. The latest COVID-19 Pulse of WA survey by Metrix Consulting reveals that for the growing number of young people spending more time online and facing disproportionate emotional challenges, there is a need for brands to shift beyond transactional relationships and cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections online and offline. A focus on simplicity and resilience has the potential to build trust and reassurance among young West Australians. For more insights into the current sentiments and behaviours driving the changes affecting WA businesses, download your copy of the latest COVID-19 Pulse of WA today. Back To News & Views