Two Michelin-starred chef Sat Bains is calling on chefs and hospitality workers to sign out of their social media accounts for one week to raise awareness for mental health.
Posting on his Instagram account, Sat revealed he will be signing off from his social media account for one week in support of World Mental Health Day and added that he would be posting a selfie of himself wearing a green ribbon which is the international symbol of mental health awareness. Thereafter, he will be removing himself from all social media and is encouraging his fellow chefs to do the same, stating that: “It’s only one week boys and girls, we can do this!”
Each chef involved will purchase a green ribbon badge with all proceeds going towards the charity’s vital work which includes focusing on finding and addressing the sources of mental health problems. Other chefs that are taking part include: Paul Ainsworth, Richard Corrigan, Helena Puolakka, Dan Doherty, Mark Birchall, Lisa Goodwin-Allen and Andrew Fairlie who will all post selfies wearing the green ribbon and signing off their personal channels for the week.
Other chefs also taking part include Adam Reid, Athinagoras Kostakos, Ben Tish, Billy Wright, George Blogg, Jack Layer, John Lawson, Josh Eggleton, Mark Jarvis, Matt Tebbutt, Matt Worswick, Michael Carr, Mike Reid, Niall Keating, Simon Gregory, Simon Hulstone, Steve Groves and Tom Booton.
Sat commented: “Social media has become such a massive part of all our lives with the average Brit checking their phone as much as 28 times a day. It’s a great way to see what my industry colleagues are up to, who’s been eating where and, of course, it plays an important role in driving business to our restaurants.
However, many studies have shown a strong connection between social media and people’s mental health and I think we should all give ourselves a bit of a break away from the online world, taking the time to reflect on our own mental health and considering the wellness of others.
Many people in our industry struggle with mental health issues and I want to do what I can to raise awareness and to encourage those battling with mental health issues to speak out. Taking a weeklong break from social media is not a big ask for any of us, but if my fellow chefs and I can make any kind of difference and raise awareness for the amazing charities that help people, such as MIND and the Mental Health Foundation, then I will feel that we have achieved something positive.”
World Mental Health Day takes place next week on Wednesday 10th October and Sat Bains is calling for chefs to sign off from social media to support the initiative. The two-Michelin starred chef feels there needs to be greater awareness of mental health issues, within the hospitality industry. With chefs from the late Anthony Bourdain to chef Andi Walker speaking candidly about their mental health struggles, it is clear that more action is required to support those in need.
Campaigns such as Andrew Clarke’s Pilot Light initiative is aiming to make mental health in the workplace less of a taboo subject and to provide the necessary support.
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