R U OK? encourages hospitality industry to look out for each other
hello • 28 August 2018
Chances are one of your work mates needs to talk.
IN an Australian first, suicide prevention charity R U OK? is working with the hospitality sector to find better ways to ensure the industry is equipped to handle the pressures that come with what is an exciting, yet demanding, workplace.
A recent survey of hospitality workers commissioned by R U OK? revealed:
- 80 per cent of hospitality workers agreed that mental health issues, such as feeling depressed, anxious or manic, are a challenge currently facing those in the industry.
- Fatigue was the number one challenge faced by those in the industry, more so in the 45 to 64 years age group.
- Within the older demographic, high employee turnover and frequent staff changes were noted as challenges.
- Those in the younger age bracket were more likely to reference unsociable work hours, dealing with difficult customers and pay challenges, as job stressors.
- On a positive note, the majority of those surveyed said they do feel that they can access support from colleagues, not just family and friends, should they need it.
- While 50 per cent of respondents said they had been asked by someone at work in the past 12 months if they were ok when they really needed it
- Around 50 per cent of hospitality workers in the last year said they had wanted someone at work to ask them if they were ok.
- Around 40 per cent had thought about asking someone if they were ok, but didn’t. When asked why, a third indicated that they didn’t feel it was their place to ask the question.
Respondents were also asked what supports or initiatives were offered by their current
employer.
- Those working in larger organisations, full-time employees and managers were more aware of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and more likely to reach out to an EAP service if they needed to talk.
- Talking one-on-one with managers, taking time off when needed, changes to shift times/rostering and accessing EAPs without fear of repercussions or stigma, were noted as possible solutions to workplace pressures.
Kate Tones, Group People Experience Manager of Australia’s premier hospitality group Merivale, said she welcomed the addition of the new course to Allara Learning’s suite of online short courses.
The online course is complemented by other free resources featuring the tagline ‘Chances are one of your work family needs to talk’. Resources include posters, stickers for roster boards, and a conversation guide.
Food for Thought founder, chef and R U OK? Ambassador Mal Meiers said, “These results show us that a lot of people are asking the question but we need to step up our game and do it comfortably and more regularly. This isn’t an easy industry to work in, but it can be incredibly rewarding because of our work families.
“Our industry is dynamic and exciting but there can be pressures that come with long hours, a fast pace and high expectations. The new R U OK? campaign will help both front-of-house and back-of-house staff look out for each other and feel better supported, which ultimately creates a stronger, happier and more cohesive team.”
Centre for Corporate Health pyschologist Rachel Clements said, “We know EAPs and specific support services are in the industry, however they’re not always known about or utilised which is why it’s even more important to learn skills to support those working alongside you.
“We understand that mental health issues and life’s pressures can impact those in the hospitality world, but with support, employees can still have a rewarding and successful career. When you work in a team environment, where each person plays a vital role, it’s essential that everyone feels supported, heard and valued if they’re having a tough time.”
Survey results
The research was conducted on behalf of R U OK? by Colmar Brunton via Colmar Brunton’s fieldwork partner The Online Research Unit. A total of sample of n=199 Australian adults (aged 16+) were interviewed from all states and territories across the hospitality industry.
The recent incident in Sydney has left many feeling distressed and overwhelmed, and you may notice the children in your life are struggling too. Below, you’ll find advice from mental health experts on caring for your own wellbeing, and providing meaningful support to others in the days and weeks ahead. Talking to children about traumatic events Children are likely to have seen and heard distressing information about this incident. Ongoing news coverage, images and discussion can intensify feelings of anxiety, sadness and anger. The Child Mind Institute has published a practical guide to help parents and carers talk with children about traumatic events. The guide offers practical age-specific advice and has been developed by experts in child psychology, you can access this guide here . Events involving violence or serious harm can be especially difficult for children to understand or discuss. The guide focuses on helping children feel safe, supported and reassured, and encourages parents, carers or guardians to: Provide comfort and reassurance, including physical affection Remain calm and measured when discussing the event Maintain regular routines to restore a sense of normality Encourage play, connection and time with others Share honest, age-appropriate information from trusted sources Limit children’s exposure to news, especially younger children Listen patiently and validate children’s feelings Recognise that fear, anger, sadness or guilt are all normal reactions Looking after yourself, and supporting others Rachel Clements, R U OK? Advisor, and Director of Psychological Services at Centre for Corporate Health, said strong emotional reactions are normal and healthy for people of all ages following public acts of violence, even among those not directly impacted. “Some reactions that are incredibly normal are concern, shock, horror, disbelief. When that wears off sometimes, people experience stronger feelings, sometimes anger, despair, sadness, anxiety or fear-based behaviour." Ms Clements advised that connecting with friends, sporting clubs, or workplace networks, and simply asking ‘are you OK?’, can play a key role in supporting people experiencing distress. "This event will disrupt the nervous system. One of the most important things we can do is stay connected, talk to each other and lean into supportive conversations,” Ms Clements said. She suggested starting a genuine conversation by asking questions such as: 'it's been tough watching this information coming to light, how are you feeling about it?’ “Then, all you’ve got to do is listen with empathy, without judgment or interruption, and just allow someone to talk about their experience and how they are feeling. When it is the right time in the conversation, you can then gently guide someone towards supportive actions, like doing some gentle exercise, staying connected with friends and family, or maintaining regular routines.” Ms Clements emphasised the importance of checking in again to ensure people have continued support. If you notice someone’s distress is ongoing for several weeks and begins to affect their work or social life, professional help should be encouraged. If you or the children in your care are experiencing ongoing distress, consider speaking with a doctor or another trusted healthcare provider. Free and professional 24/7counselling services are available, find contact details here . If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. Ask R U OK? Any Day.
This year, Australians continued to grow their confidence and capability to ask, 'are you OK?' any day of the year - reminding us how real connection and meaningful conversations can happen in the most ordinary, everyday moments. Across every age and stage of life, people helped normalise these important check-ins by looking out for one another, reducing stigma, and driving genuine change. Thanks to our supporters, awareness continues to expand in schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, and communities in every corner of Australia. Thank you to everyone who started conversations, and to everyone who supported the mission and work of R U OK?. Below is a short video which shares a glimpse of the activity made possible through collaboration. *Voice-over by former-CEO, Katherine Newton.
From growing up on farms to a shared interest in history, Australians, young and old, are discovering just how much they have in common, and how storytelling can connect generations in unexpected ways. What’s bringing them together is 'Heart and Soul Story', a social enterprise that fosters intergenerational connections. Through its programs, young people and older generations come together in aged care homes and schools to share stories, build life skills, and prevent loneliness. At a recent session which encouraged everyone to Ask R U OK? Any Day, students visited an aged-care community with R U OK? Conversation Bingo cards, which feature prompts to spark humour, curiosity, and connection.
