Taking the Mental Health Pledge: A Commitment to Your Kitchen Team’s Wellbeing

In the high-stakes atmosphere of a professional kitchen, the long hours and relentless push for perfection can wear down even the toughest crew and take a toll physically and mentally. But stress and burnout shouldn't be the norm.  

That’s why we’re inviting you to take the Mental Health Pledge—because a healthy kitchen starts with a healthy team. 

Why Mental Health Matters in the Kitchen

In other industries, the stigma around mental health is slowly shifting, but the foodservice industry is still lagging and struggling with high levels of stress, anxiety, and mental illness. Kitchen staff often feel like they need to “tough it out,” instead of asking for help when they need it most. 

But you can change the narrative by taking the Mental Health Pledge and prioritising your team’s wellbeing. You’ll not only be creating a healthier work environment, but you’re helping shape a more positive foodservice industry overall. 

How to Put the Pledge into Action

Taking the Mental Health Pledge is the first step, but how do you bring it to life in your kitchen? Here are a few ways to get started: 

Talk about it

Normalise talking about mental health in your kitchen, whether in team meetings, family meals or one-on-one check-ins. Let your team know that mental health is a priority. 

Give them access to help

Offer your team access to resources like EAPs. You could also offer mental health days and tools to help your team cope with the demands of kitchen life. 

Check out the available helplines and wellbeing services in your market. 

Lead by example

Show them that mental health matters by taking breaks when needed, managing your stress openly, and talking about your own experiences. 

Check in regularly

Make it a habit to check in with your team regularly, asking how they’re doing and offering support when necessary. Download our Wellbeing Checklist to help guide these check-ins.