For the food and beverage industry, 2020 helped destigmatize the conversation surrounding addiction and alcohol abuse. These tough conversations need to continue to address the industry’s broken structures if it is to rebuild after the pandemic. This may be a time to tear it down to build it back anew.
On a grand scale, restaurant employees need access to healthcare and mental health resources and decent wages. Instead of a shift drink, offer a percentage off of therapy or a yoga class. Allow workers space and resources to discuss. Have managers call out concerning worrisome behavior rather than indulging it. Education is crucial and mental health and addiction need to be addressed, recognized and destigmatized.
Wine and spirits can be beautiful products for many; for others, they can be a source of illness and overdose. Think again when promoting 11am happy hours or pairing wines with your shower, exercise, laundry or breakfast. Alcoholics and addicts know how to do that. But those in the industry see the artistry behind what they’re drinking and good reasons to get behind and not scoff at the renaissance of no-alcohol (NA) and low-ABV products and cocktails. One in five of the most unassuming people may be struggling and not even know it.
Anyone struggling can go to bensfriendshope.com for virtual meetings about substance abuse and addiction in the food and beverage industry. Virtual and live meetings nationally can be found at aa.org or rehab. In Houston, recovery services can be found at Memorial Hermann and the Right Step Houston.
Copyright ©2024 Edible Houston. All rights reserved |Privacy Policy
