Thursday 12 September is R U OK? Day, acting as an important reminder for hospitality professionals to stop and recognise if you, a friend, or colleague are struggling, and ask ‘are you okay?’. With our industry hearing damning stories of abusive behaviour and distressing workplace culture, these conversations have never been more important.
It is all too common for people to struggle in silence, particularly in an industry as demanding as hospitality.
Research conducted by R U OK? found that 80 per cent of hospitality workers faced mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, with 50 per cent saying they wished somebody at work had asked if they were okay.
This research has informed the development of the charity’s hospitality campaign, which includes dedicated resources to help the hospitality industry navigate sensitive and meaningful conversations.
Julie-Anne Whitfield, Workplace Engagement Manager at R U OK?, says: “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.”
Katherine Newton, CEO of R U OK?, said: “A lot can happen in a year, a month, or even a week. Whether it’s your friend, family member, colleague, partner, or teammate, the people you care about go through life’s ups and downs every day.
“By checking in regularly with the people close to you, you can help prevent small things from becoming big things.”
All resources are free and can be found at ruok.org.au/hospitality, including the Mateship Manual, a guide to supporting someone in the hospitality industry who’s doing it tough, along with an online course and resources that promote a more positive culture.
While the national day of action takes place tomorrow, the charity is reminding people to keep these conversations going year-round.
Research conducted by R U OK? found that 90 per cent of people who are regularly asked if they’re okay feel more supported, connected and cared about.
“We see an increase in supporting behaviours around R U OK? Day, our national day of action. However, we know life happens every day. Our message to all those living in Australia is don’t wait, ask R U OK? any day, because a meaningful conversation can change a life,” added Newton.
If you are feeling distressed or struggling, there is support available to you.
1800RESPECT: Free 24/7 support for people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or chat online at 1800respect.org.au.
Lifeline: Free and confidential crisis support. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114 or chat online at lifeline.org.au.
13YARN: A free 24/7 service offering crisis support for Aborigional & Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13YARN – 13 92 76.