How to Advocate for Mental Health Resources in Your Bar or Restaurant
Bar and restaurant staff face unique pressures and stressors at work, and the demands of the job impact their personal lives too. With mental health concerns on the rise, is it time your employer stepped up?
Mental Health in the Hospitality Industry
Across the hospitality industry, 51% of staff find their job stressful most or all of the time. Long, unsociable and irregular hours can be difficult to manage, and they interrupt sleep patterns. Handling rude or harassing customers while staying professional takes a daily toll. Insecure contracts, lack of benefits and low pay lead to financial stress, yet workers have to be “always on,” maintaining excellent interpersonal skills and high energy.
In one study, around 43% of bartenders showed signs of alcohol dependency, with a significant percentage at risk of developing drug and alcohol use disorders. To strengthen mental health, employer support is crucial.
5 Steps to Effectively Advocate for Change
It can be challenging to know how to approach management about mental health support. Here are some suggestions.
1. Observe and Document the Need
Learn the signs of burnout and stress, such as low morale, irritability, lack of energy, cynicism or reduced professionalism. Try keeping a private log of observations without naming anyone. The goal is to identify patterns that show a need for mental health care, not to single anyone out — you are gathering anonymized evidence.
2. Build a Coalition with Co-Workers
A collective voice has more power than an individual request. Start one-on-one conversations with trusted peers to gauge their feelings about asking for support. Focus on finding common ground and shared experiences. This proactive, solution-based mindset can strengthen your team and help colleagues feel heard, whether or not you pursue the issue further.
3. Research Practical and Affordable Support Options
The goal is to demonstrate to an employer that you are not asking for anything unfeasible and that there are affordable solutions. For example, you might suggest they provide:
Facilitated access to free or low-cost mental health apps
A designated quiet space for breaks
Guest speakers or workshops on stress management
A mental health buddy system
Signposting in staff areas to share local support groups and helplines
4. Frame Your Proposal
Focus on the business benefits when speaking to a manager or owner. Explain how improving employee mental health can lead to lower employee turnover, fewer sick days and a more cohesive, productive team. Research and share some business-focused figures, such as the fact that for each hourly paid worker, a business may lose around $3,600 a year due to absenteeism, which can be a sign of someone experiencing mental health challenges.
Present your documented observations, facts and researched suggestions in a clear and organized manner. Emphasize that you are proposing a proactive solution for the business, rather than making a complaint.
5. Offer to Help and Follow Up
End the conversation by offering to help implement a decision. For example, you could gather information on mental health providers or design advocacy posters. Respectfully tell the manager or owner that you will follow up with them in a couple of weeks if no action has been taken.
Championing Mental Wellness in the Workforce
Advocating for mental health resources is a powerful way to create a positive impact. Your voice can empower a stronger team and create a better environment for all. Take proactive steps and lead your workplace conversation around better mental health.
The Balanced Bartender with Mia Barnes
Crafting the perfect cocktail is an art, but true mastery lies in balance—not just of flavors, but of creativity, precision, and passion. In a profession where long hours and high-energy are the norm, maintaining balance both behind the bar and in life is essential. The Balanced Bartender will help guide bartenders toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Stay in tune with your mind, body, and spirit.
The post How to Advocate for Mental Health Resources in Your Bar or Restaurant appeared first on Chilled Magazine.