The holiday season is a time of joy for many, but for others, it can be a period of immense stress, loneliness, or sadness.
In the hospitality industry, where long hours, high-pressure environments, and demanding schedules are the norm, Christmas can feel more overwhelming than festive.
At Talking Hospitality, we’ve discussed the challenges of mental health in hospitality extensively, and we know how crucial it is to provide support during difficult times.
If you’re finding it hard to cope this Christmas, please know you’re not alone.
There are resources, organisations, and communities ready to help you navigate these feelings and challenges. Let’s take a moment to explore some practical steps and point you towards organisations that can make a difference.
Why Christmas Can Be Hard
In Talking Hospitality Season 4, Episode 34 (“Why Are Men's Mental Health Issues So Prolific in Hospitality?”), host Tracey Rashid discussed how the combination of long hours, isolation, and financial pressures creates the perfect storm for mental health struggles in our industry. The holidays often amplify these challenges:
- Increased Stress: For hospitality professionals, Christmas often means back-to-back shifts, high customer expectations, and limited downtime.
- Financial Strain: The cost of Christmas can weigh heavily, especially for those on low wages or recovering from difficult financial years.
- Loneliness: Being away from family or friends, especially for those who work during the festive period, can heighten feelings of isolation.
- Reflection: The end of the year prompts reflection, which can stir unresolved feelings or anxieties about the future.
Recognising the Signs
Mental health struggles can manifest in different ways. Here are a few common signs:
- Persistent sadness or feeling "low"
- Irritability or anger
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Physical symptoms like headaches or exhaustion
- Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy
If you recognise any of these symptoms, don’t dismiss them. Acknowledging how you feel is the first step toward getting support.
Immediate Support: Who to Contact
Here are trusted resources available in the UK if you need immediate help:
Hospitality Action
Hospitality Action has been a lifeline for hospitality professionals for nearly 200 years. Their services include financial support, mental health resources, and a free 24/7 helpline. Whether you're dealing with stress, debt, or addiction, they’re here for you.
- Helpline: 0808 802 2111
- Website: hospitalityaction.org.uk
Samaritans
Samaritans offer confidential, non-judgmental support for anyone struggling to cope. You can talk to them about anything.
- Helpline: 116 123 (Free, available 24/7)
- Website: samaritans.org
Mind
Mind provides resources and advice on mental health, including tips for coping with stress and anxiety over the holidays.
- Infoline: 0300 123 3393
- Text: 86463
- Website: mind.org.uk
Shout
If talking feels too difficult, Shout offers a free, confidential 24/7 text service.
- Text: 85258
- Website: giveusashout.org
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
CALM is dedicated to preventing suicide, offering support to anyone in crisis.
- Helpline: 0800 58 58 58 (5 PM - Midnight, Daily)
- Website: thecalmzone.net
Practical Tips for Coping This Christmas
If you’re struggling, here are some small steps to help you navigate the season:
- Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to commitments that feel overwhelming.
- Stay Connected: Call or text a friend or family member, even if it’s just for a quick chat.
- Take a Breather: Even five minutes of deep breathing or stepping outside can make a difference.
- Focus on Gratitude: List three things you’re grateful for each day, no matter how small.
- Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the organisations above if you need additional support.
What Can Hospitality Businesses Do?
As discussed in multiple episodes of Talking Hospitality businesses play a pivotal role in supporting their teams’ mental health.
If you’re an employer, consider:
- Implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Hospitality Action offers affordable EAPs that include counselling and resources.
- Encouraging Open Conversations: Foster a culture where employees feel safe discussing their struggles.
- Providing Flexible Schedules: Where possible, accommodate time off or adjust workloads during the festive period.
- Signposting Resources: Share information about the organisations listed above in team meetings or on staff noticeboards.
You’re Not Alone
At Talking Hospitality, we believe in the power of connection, compassion, and action. Christmas can be tough, but it’s also a time to lean on one another and remind ourselves that support is always available. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, contacting a helpline, or taking one small step toward self-care, remember—you don’t have to face this season alone.
Let’s continue to support one another in 2025 and beyond. And if you need help, please don’t wait to reach out. There’s always someone ready to listen.
For more insights and resources, visit the Mental Health section of our website.
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