Welcome to World Mental Health Day at Platinum Recruitment
Welcome to Mental Health Day UK at Platinum. Behind the clinking glasses and tasty dishes is a team balancing service excellence with personal wellbeing.
In this article, we delve into the fast-paced world of hospitality and shed light on the often-overlooked stories of mental health. Join us as we look at the link between mental health and hospitality. On World Mental Health Day 2025 and beyond, let’s make sure wellness isn’t just served on plates but is part of the hospitality experience.
What is World Mental Health Day?
World Mental Health Day takes place on 10 October every year. It is an important day to raise awareness about mental health, promote open conversations, and help teams learn how to support wellbeing.
It’s also a reminder that it’s okay to ask for help, no matter what you’re going through.
This year, World Mental Health Day 2025 focuses on Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies. It highlights that support for mental health shouldn’t stop when a crisis hits. Whether people face conflict, natural disasters, or are forced to leave their homes, access to mental health care is more vital than ever.
World Mental Health Day and the UK Hospitality Industry
The hospitality industry is the UK’s third-largest employer, making up 10% of all employment. A 2019 study by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) found that 80% of workers reported increased stress levels. Yet, only 10% had received mental health training.
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the hospitality industry was facing a staffing crisis. Brexit led to hundreds of thousands of foreign workers leaving, and the pandemic made the problem worse. As businesses reopened, filling roles became a major challenge, adding even more pressure on staff.
On World Mental Health Day, it’s clear that mental health and staffing challenges go hand in hand. Employee wellbeing is just as important as productivity.
Have you read our article Positive Mental Health in Hospitality?
Improving Mental Health Awareness in Hospitality
The fast-paced nature of hospitality means extra steps are always needed to keep staff safe. One clear change after recent global events is that the industry is recognising the importance of mental health among its teams.
Here are seven ways hospitality is improving workplace wellbeing today:
Mental Health Awareness Programs
Many businesses are running programs to educate staff and reduce mental health stigma. These often include workshops, seminars, and training, especially around World Mental Health Day, when awareness is at its peak.
Flexible Working Conditions
Some companies offer flexible schedules, helping employees achieve a better work-life balance – a key factor in staff happiness.
Training for Managers
Managers need training to spot mental health issues, promote open conversations, and provide support. Managers play a vital role in creating a positive workplace.
Wellness Programs
Wellness programmes focusing on physical and mental health (such as fitness classes, gym access, healthy eating options, and mental health resources) are becoming more common in hospitality.
Crisis Response Plans
Clear crisis plans ensure staff get immediate support during traumatic events, protecting both emotional resilience and confidence at work.
Best Mental Health Podcasts to Tune Into
Mental health podcasts can offer guidance and support, making them an ideal resource on World Mental Health Day and beyond.
Here are our top five:
Feel Better Live More
Hosted by Dr Rangan Chatterjee, GP and author, this podcast aims to inspire, empower, and transform your approach to wellbeing.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Burnt Chef Journal
Kris Hall, founder of The Burnt Chef Project, speaks openly about mental health in the hospitality sector, sharing real-life stories from the industry.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Ten Percent Happier
Journalist Dan Harris talks about mindfulness and mental resilience after experiencing a panic attack on live television.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Happy Place
Fearne Cotton’s heartfelt conversations explore happiness, grief, and mental strength with notable guests.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
It’s important to note that while mental health podcasts can be a helpful resource, they are not a substitute for mental health care. If you are facing mental health concerns, we encourage you to seek support from a mental health professional.
Further Mental Health Resources
The journey towards better mental health is bold, and the path is as diverse as the people who walk it.
Below, you’ll find further outlets to support people with their mental health journey:
This World Mental Health Day, let’s continue to build a culture of care, openness, and support in hospitality, where staff wellbeing matters just as much as customer satisfaction.
