Five Things You May Be Feeling as a Restaurant Worker Stuck at Home
The dining rooms may be opening, but many restaurant workers may still find themselves spending more time at home than ever before. Some changes are cumulative. I spoke to several people in the restaurant industry to get a sense of how the pandemic has continued to affect them. If you are also in the restaurant business, you may be able to relate to these five things they shared:
Missing your work family. Many restaurant workers spend more time with their work family than with their real family. Suddenly losing these connections may leave you feeling isolated.
Feeling uncomfortable with slow-paced life. If you’re used to busy nights in the weeds, lazy days at home may leave you feeling restless.
Not knowing how to spend your time. For many, work was their main source of structure and routine. With this gone, you may feel directionless and unsure of how to fill the time.
Being worried for the future of the industry. Many of the people I spoke to expressed concern that the restaurant business may be forever changed by this experience. For some, the lack of job security made them feel anxious.
Losing part of your identity. Everyone I spoke to felt that working in restaurants was part of who they are. Without this important piece of your identity, you may be feeling lost.If you can relate to any of the above feelings, you are not alone. Reach out to a mental health professional if you need help during this stressful time.
If you’re feeling stuck in a rut, unsure about the future, struggling with anxiety or depression, and you’re ready to talk to someone about it, reach out to me and I’ll do everything I can to help.
