Eating Disorders in the Hospitality Industry
Depression in the kitchen is at an all-time high, but that isn’t the only mental health battle chefs are facing on a daily basis.
These days, more chefs are suffering from eating disorders, likely to be triggered by the long hours and demanding pressures of the kitchen. Goodman Fielder Food Service takes a look at the mental health condition that is rarely spoken about, despite affecting 1 million Australians.
Chefs are known for being put under immense pressure in order to plate up the perfect meal. But it seems those who put their love for food on a plate for their customers, are the ones who are suffering in silence the most. Despite their days revolving around ingredients and inventing the next best dish, reports have shown that this close relationship with food is a common lead to eating disorders.
Goodman Fielder Food Service spoke with pastry chef Maya Okada Erickson, who said “We drink a lot and smoke a lot and don’t always take good care of our bodies." Chef Liam Crawley echoed these comments, stating: “We skip all of those valuable times where your body is actually saying ‘I need food’.”
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As chefs restrict their meal and food intake, it has a flow-on effect to their customers, as they begin to lose their smell and taste functionality. It also affects the relationship between colleagues due to unpredictable behaviours and mood swings. It is common for those suffering from eating disorders to have short tempers and overdrive of emotion.
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A Positive Shift in the Kitchen
Overcoming the challenges of an eating disorder can be a struggle, but for chefs to begin to make improvements to their overall health, adjusting their way of life in the kitchen is a place to start. While long hours and customer pressure might be inevitable, taking time to regularly sit and consume a light meal can lead to positive change and shift in expectations.
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If you or anyone you know need help or support for an eating disorder, please call Butterfly’s National Helpline on 1800 334 673 or e-mail their support team on support@thebutterflyfoundation.org.au.
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28th February 2019
