The hospitality sector can be a challenging environment, characterised by demanding hours, weekend shifts, and constant pressure. Workers often prioritise the needs of others over their own, leading to a heightened risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and burnout, particularly with the proximity to alcohol.
In light of these difficulties, La Vida Hospitality introduced the Celebrate Wellness programme in 2022, designed specifically to enhance mental health resources for hospitality employees. This initiative focuses on providing education, resource accessibility, and financial support for professional therapy to improve overall wellbeing.
By 2024, Celebrate Wellness emerged as a separate nonprofit entity, with programme manager Kathy McDonald noting the successful outreach to numerous workers. Last year alone, 65 individuals were referred to mental health resources, and local restaurant employees accumulated 168 hours of therapy, significantly enhancing their mental health awareness.
The programme offers the first ten therapy sessions free of charge, partnering with certified mental health practitioners who accept unconventional billing. Funding sources include donations, sponsorships, and events, all managed through the Greater Lewes Foundation.
Looking ahead, McDonald expresses hopes for expanding programme reach with increased funding, stating, “Based upon participant surveys, we have a program that is needed and that works.” Her focus is to ensure that every worker in need can benefit from this essential service. Donations can be made via the Greater Lewes Foundation’s website.
The Celebrate Wellness programme, launched by La Vida Hospitality in 2022, aims to support the mental health of hospitality workers through resources, education, and professional therapy. By 2024, it evolved into a nonprofit, providing significant therapy hours to those in need. The first ten sessions are complimentary, funded by donations and events, with a goal to expand services to reach more workers.
Celebrate Wellness is addressing the profound mental health challenges faced by hospitality workers, recognising their unique pressures and needs. By providing free therapy and educational resources, it aims to empower these individuals to seek help and manage their mental well-being effectively. The initiative’s transition into an independent nonprofit marks a significant step forward in supporting this often-overlooked workforce. With increased funding, its potential for impact can grow even further, ensuring that mental wellness becomes a priority in the hospitality industry.
Original Source: www.capegazette.com
