Too many people working in our dynamic industry are experiencing mental health challenges in silence so it’s vital that barriers to accessing mental health support are removed, says Mark Lewis, Chief Executive of Hospitality Action.
We know that seeking help can make a big difference. Unlike a cast on a broken limb, mental struggles reside out of plain sight making it challenging for others to understand the severity of a situation which can lead to perceived misunderstandings or lack of empathy.
In our 2024 mental health survey, over two- thirds (69%) of hospitality workers said that they have experienced mental health challenges in the last five years since the Covid-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis, half (49%) in the last two years alone. Therefore, it’s imperative that destigmatising the issue is addressed.
Whilst there is often a fear of being judged, 65% stated that they would be reticent to vocalise a mental health challenge due to fears it could negatively impact their career progression, a crucial point employers must address if they are to succeed in nurturing a truly supportive and open work culture. Ignoring it can result in poor performance, absenteeism or even employees leaving their jobs.
It can be hard to know where to turn but often, overcoming challenges requires a combined effort from both the individual and external support systems and people to help alleviate feelings of isolation and offer solutions before problems escalate too far. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) have been designed to offer exactly that, offering an invaluable lifeline for employees, and they are easy for employers to implement.
Despite significant progress in recent years to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and wellbeing, it is evident that we still have a way to go. Employers must take the lead by creating a work environment that prioritises a balanced work/life dynamic, and which encourages open, honest discussions without fear of negative repercussions.