When you're not ok

UK hospitality workers have been among the worst affected by lockdown measures during 2020, so if you feel like you’re struggling, you’re far from alone

Last year will go down in history as one of the toughest years imaginable, courtesy of Covid-19 and lockdown measures. For the hospitality sector, it has been brutal. Busy kitchens and bustling cafes all closed overnight. Staff were furloughed, not knowing if they had a job to return to. Fear and uncertainty, coupled with boredom and lack of routine have resulted in what can only be described as a sectorwide mental health crisis.

Foodservice was already hard on its workers’ mental health, with one in two workers saying they had struggled with mental health issues. As a result, chefs Andrew Clarke and Doug Sanham launched Pilot Light, a campaign aimed at raising awareness of mental health issues for those working in the industry.

The campaign has a range of fantastic resources available including podcasts, reports, videos, sleep tips, motivational soundbites and even recipes designed to make you feel good. Visit pilotlightcampaign.co.uk to find out more.

If you feel that you may be struggling, try these steps and further resources for support.

MAKE CONNECTIONS

Whether it’s friends, family or colleagues, connecting with others can make a huge difference to how you feel. Spend time nurturing relationships with those you’re close to. Share your feelings and ask about theirs, and you’ll reap the benefits.

KEEP TO A ROUTINE

If you’re furloughed or out of work, it’s easy to let the days drift, but this can make things feel worse. Create a schedule for the day ahead that includes meals, exercise and time for relaxation.

MOVE

You don’t need to turn into a runner or visit the gym every day, but if you can find a physical activity that makes you feel even the tiniest bit better, try and build it into your daily routine. Not only will this help your routine but it will also release those all-important endorphins.

KEEP YOUR BRAIN TICKING OVER

Whether you fancy learning a new language, brushing up on old skills or tackling new ones, mastering new elements of a business or reading different types of books, embracing learning can boost your confidence as well as give you a genuine sense of achievement.

TAKE A MOMENT

When it all feels too much and you feel overwhelmed, try and ground yourself in the present moment. Focus on the things around you: what you can see, hear, smell, feel and taste. Breathe in through the nose, hold it for several seconds and breathe out through the mouth. Repeat. Let this moment pass.

Want to support others?

If you’re concerned about a colleague, friend or family member, try Pilot Light’s ALEC approach

A – ask them if they’re OK. Say you’ve noticed that they seem different. Trust your instincts and if you think there’s something wrong, don’t be afraid to ask twice.

L – listen without distraction or interruption. You don’t need to diagnose problems or offer solutions, just let them know you’re all ears and no judgement. Followup questions are good – they’ll show you were listening and that you care.

E – encourage them to take action. Help them focus on simple tasks that will impact on their wellbeing, such as exercising, getting enough sleep and eating properly. Suggest they talk to others, such as a friend or doctor.

C – check in with them regularly. Offer to go on a walk or for a coffee, schedule in a call or send a text. This will show you care and that there is someone out there rooting for them.

If you feel like you need more support, or want to help a colleague, friend or family member, check out these online resources, all aimed at those in the hospitality sector:

» hospitalityhealth.org.uk

» gov.uk/government/news/new-adviceto-support-mental-health-duringcoronavirus-outbreak

» fairkitchens.com/en/stories/ fairkitchens-mental-health-support1.html

» fairkitchens.com/en/stories/covid-19- and-mental-health-in-the-uk.html

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