'Life Is All About
Balance'
The pandemic has been particularly hard on the restaurant industry and its workforce. That's why many are sharing experiences and making efforts to explore mental health and wellness initiatives.
Sarah Gavigan, chef and owner of Otaku Ramen in Nashville, detailed some of what she has been doing for her staff to promote more daily health.
"Health care and mental health are sadly out of reach for many of our employees based on the current system. We searched for a telehealth health care program that enabled employees to have both primary and mental health care available anytime. We use Highlight Healthcare as our primary healthcare for all employees that couples with the umbrella health insurance from the Affordable Care Act. We also offer B-12 shots to the entire staff every two weeks. We also use the Headspace app and require that all employees download it and use it to help with anxiety, mindfulness, and sleep. We often have meditation before service. We provide daily immunity boosters to the staff as well like Emergen-C for line drinks to help them stay healthy."
