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The hospitality industry is known for its high turnover rate, long hours, and stressful working environment, all of which can lead to burnout. Mental health awareness and support is an important issue as it can directly impact your staff morale, productivity, and team cohesion. As a leader, it is your role to invest in mental health initiatives in the workplace to help your employees manage stress and stay healthy. So, let’s talk about it.

THE UNDERLYING ISSUE

In recent years, mental health disorders have been on the rise globally.(4) Within the hospitality industry, the numbers are even more startling. In 2021, more than 35% of South African employees reported two or more Common Mental Disorders,(1) highlighting the need for greater mental health initiatives in the workplace to provide effective support and reduce the stigma.(4)

SUPPORTING AWARENESS: MENTAL HEALTH MONTH

10 October is World Mental Health Day. For the professional kitchen industry, this day serves as a reminder of the unique pressures its professionals face. It is pivotal to establish open communication channels where employees feel safe to share their feelings and concerns. Moreover, offering programs or workshops focusing on mental resilience and stress management can help employees navigate the high pressure environment in which they operate.(3)

This month, #FairKitchens is focusing on fostering a safe working culture that supports employee well-being, encourages respect, and ensures your kitchen culture thrives.

PRACTICAL STEPS TO SUPPORT EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH

 

Cultivating a supportive work culture is essential

Cultivating a supportive work culture is essential. This can be achieved by actively promoting open discussions about mental health. A culture that places a premium on empathy and emotional intelligence ensures employees feel valued and understood. An effective way to make employees feel appreciated is to celebrate their accomplishments regularly.(3)

Encourage employees to disconnect and take time after working hours

By introducing remote work opportunities and allowing flexible working hours, your business can provide your employees with a better work-life balance. Alongside this, it’s essential to set clear boundaries and expectations. Encourage employees to disconnect and take time after working hours to ensure their well-being.(3)

Organise workshops on stress management

This includes easy access to Employee Assistance Programs, in-house counselling, or partnerships with external mental health providers. Organise workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience. Additionally, create spaces or support groups for open, confidential, and judgment-free conversations to foster a sense of community and understanding.(3)

Managers and other supervisory staff must be trained to recognise signs of potential mental health

Managers and other supervisory staff must be trained to recognise signs of potential mental health concerns in their team members. Beyond just recognition, you should train managers to be well-versed in the best practices for addressing these issues and connecting staff with the right resources.(3)

Encourage your employees to take regular breaks

Encourage your employees to take regular breaks and participate in activities outside of work that improve their mental health – from socialising to hobbies, and exercise. Providing resources on managing stress and effective time management can further assist in maintaining a healthy balance. Prioritise mental health days in paid time off policies – this can also help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health, promoting a more understanding and supportive work environment.(3)

Learn more about how you can support your team members struggling with mental health with SADAG’s tips.

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Men's Day on 19 November spotlights

MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH

International Men’s Day on 19 November spotlights the critical, often neglected issue of men’s mental health. Mental challenges can significantly impact men’s physical and emotional health, leading to depression and anxiety. Due to societal norms, men often refrain from discussing feelings or seeking mental health assistance, emphasising the vital need to care for all your staff’s mental health.(2)

This month, Fair Kitchens will explore ways to support men’s mental health in the workplace.

4 PRACTICAL WAYS TO SUPPORT MALE EMPLOYEES’ MENTAL HEALTH

1. Lead by Example

Senior male figures should openly discuss their mental health challenges and coping strategies. This can help normalise conversations about mental health and showcase that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Encourage leaders to share their practices for stress management and consider taking visible mental health breaks. Create dedicated channels, like Slack, where men can openly discuss their feelings and experiences.(2)

2. Promote Daily Self-Care

Emphasise the importance of taking short breaks during the day to refresh mentally. Share resources on breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and the benefits of brief walks. Remind your employees of available resources for on-the-spot emotional support.(2)

3. Provide Resources for Mental Health Self-Assessment

Place anonymous mental health self-assessment tools in accessible areas. This allows employees to screen themselves for potential conditions without fear of judgment. Support resources like the #FairKitchens helpline can offer comprehensive advice and suggest individualised care plans.(2)

4. Champion Therapy

Advocate for therapy as a means to manage stress, combat feelings of isolation, and enhance overall well-being. Highlight studies showing the effectiveness of therapy, emphasising it’s a confidential way for men to address challenges outside of their personal and professional circles.(2)

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REFLECTING AND LOOKING AHEAD

As the year concludes, it’s a prime moment for reflection. The professional kitchen industry can benefit from reviewing the year’s achievements, challenges, and the steps taken towards promoting mental well-being.

Through #FairKitchens’ #BuildABetterYou initiatives, we’ve championed empowering kitchens and their leaders towards excellence. Our emphasis has been on holistic well-being for kitchen staff with Promoting Well-being In The Kitchen With Healthy Work Habits. Moreover, our spotlight on Recruitment and Retention Strategies for a Thriving Kitchen ensures sustained success, loyalty, and productivity in the kitchen.

Reflecting on past initiatives and their impacts can provide valuable insights into crafting better, more effective strategies for the future. Here’s to learning and forging ahead with purpose!

Reflecting and Looking Ahead

The hospitality industry faces challenges like high turnover and stress, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and support. A mentally healthy team is not just a productive one, but it’s also more innovative, collaborative, and resilient. #FairKitchens supports staff well-being and looks to enhance future strategies, continuing its commitment to a healthier kitchen culture.

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In partnership with SADAG, the #FairKitchens 24/7 toll-free Helpline

  
In partnership with SADAG, the #FairKitchens 24/7 toll-free Helpline is available to you and your staff whenever needed. All calls are confidential, and you can remain completely anonymous.

Our Helpline offers free telephonic counselling with referrals to mental health professionals and resources nationwide. We can help you with any question or problem or even just lend an ear if you need to talk to someone.

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SADAG

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT OUR HELPLINE:

  • All calls are confidential, and call-backs can be arranged to suit your availability.
  • Counsellors offer practical solutions on how to manage your mental health better.
  • We provide useful self-help tips and tools.
  • We offer crisis intervention where counsellors can provide emergency intervention and case management, which might entail ambulance services, hospitalisation, police, and check-in / follow-up calls.
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CALL OUR HELPLINE AT 0800 006 333 FOR ANY MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT.

Promoting work-life balance requires ongoing effort and commitment from kitchen management and staff. Investing in the well-being of your team can help you create a productive work environment that leads to long-term success and growth.

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References:

  1. Van Wyk CH, Martin JH, Meintjes WAJ. Burden of common mental disorders in South African workplace settings. Occup Health Southern Afr. 2021; 27(5):164-171.
  2. Goetz S. “Manning Up” Doesn’t Work. Here’s How to Support Men’s Mental Health. [Online]. Nov 2022. [Cited 13 September 2023]. Available from URL: https://www.springhealth.com/blog/mens-mental-health-manning-up-doesnt-work.
  3. Corporate Wellness Magazine. How to Create a Mental Health-Friendly Workplace. [Online]. n.d. [Cited 13 September 2023]. Available from URL: https://www.corporatewellnessmagazine.com/article/how-to-create-a-mental-health-friendly-workplace#.
  4. World Health Organization. Mental health. [Online]. nd. [Cited 13 September 2023]. Available from URL: https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#.
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