Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and lack of understanding to one of openness, empathy, and support. Changing the narrative on suicide aims to inspire individuals, communities, organisations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support.

The hospitality industry is a rewarding and fast-paced sector, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Long hours, late nights, busy services, staffing pressures, customer expectations and the constant need to keep a business running can all contribute to stress.

For managers and staff alike, the pressures of day-to-day and week-to-week working can sometimes begin to affect mental health, contributing to feelings of anxiety, low mood, exhaustion or depression.

Creating a culture where people can talk

One of the most valuable things a hospitality business can do is create an environment where people feel able to talk when things aren’t going well.

Mental health can still be difficult to discuss at work. Someone who is normally cheerful and confident may be struggling behind the scenes, while a manager who is responsible for supporting everyone else may feel unable to admit that they are struggling themselves.

A simple “How are you doing?” or “Do you fancy a coffee?” can make a difference.

Managers should check in with their teams regularly, not just when there is a problem. Make it clear that asking for support is not a weakness and that conversations about mental health will be treated with respect and without judgement.

What can your business do?

Suicide Prevention Week provides a good opportunity to review the support available within your business.

Consider putting mental health information somewhere staff can easily find it, such as staff rooms, noticeboards or internal communication channels. Make sure managers know where they can direct someone who needs additional support.

You could also consider mental health awareness training for managers, introduce regular wellbeing check-ins or simply encourage teams to look out for one another during particularly challenging periods.

Most importantly, don’t underestimate the value of listening.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes giving someone the time and space to talk, taking them seriously and helping them find appropriate support can be incredibly important.

Support is available

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available.

Breathing Space provides free and confidential support for anyone in Scotland aged 16 and over experiencing low mood, anxiety or emotional distress.

Phone: 0800 83 85 87
Website: Breathing Space
Opening hours: Weekdays 6pm–2am; weekends 24 hours from Friday 6pm to Monday 6am.

NHS Inform Mental Health Support provides information about mental health and wellbeing, including how to access urgent mental health support in Scotland.

Website: www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/
Urgent mental health support: Call NHS 24 on 111, available 24/7.

If someone is in immediate danger or at immediate risk of harm, call 999.

Let’s look out for each other

Hospitality is built around people. We rely on our teams to look after customers, support colleagues and keep businesses moving, often under significant pressure.

This Suicide Prevention Week, let’s make sure we apply that same care to the people behind the scenes.

Check in. Ask twice. Listen without judgement. And make sure your team knows where to turn for support.

A conversation may only take a few minutes, but for someone who is struggling, knowing that somebody cares can make a real difference.

Gordon McIntyre MBE

Chair

Hospitality Health