Cory Hyde is a chef at the top of his game, working as Executive Chef for Hamo Hospitality in Geelong, overseeing multiple venues and a staff of over 120. Now an ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project - a global mental health initiative focused on the hospitality industry, offering free therapy and education for workers and employers - Cory shares some advice on staying mentally healthy this summer as chefs and hospitality teams prepare for the busiest time of the year.
Lean on colleagues and leadership for support
Stressed staff get tired. Anxiety is the enemy of productivity and sleep. Sometimes as chefs, we worry and stress over things that are in our head. Sharing and talking about issues is a great start. Share challenges and concerns with colleagues or supervisors who are understanding and empathetic.
Make time for rest and recovery
Even short breaks during a busy shift can make a huge difference. Take moments to step outside, stretch, meditate or simply breathe. Regular rest helps reduce stress, refresh your mind and improves your ability to handle challenges calmly.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Mental health is closely linked to physical wellbeing. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat balanced meals and stay active. Even small routines like a morning walk or a few minutes of stretching can reduce stress and boost energy.
Watch alcohol intake
A knock off drink at the end of a busy shift is often a reward for hard work. It is a cultural thing here in Australia. But one drink can often lead to another. And more than moderate alcohol intake is not great for sleep. It also isn’t great for anxiety. So, keep an eye on drinking.
Give recognition
People thrive when they are told they are doing a great job. Small recognitions of skill and competence can mean a lot to other team members. The voice of appreciation can lead a team through the hardest of shifts. And when the kitchen and FOH pull off a great service, they love hearing they have done well.
Set boundaries and prioritise your needs
In the hectic summer months, it can be tempting to say yes to every extra shift or task. However, respecting your own limits is vital for long-term mental health. Staff should be allowed to let people know when they feel overwhelmed. Setting clear boundaries prevents burnout, helps maintain focus and ensures staff can consistently deliver their best work.
Practice mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques
Mindfulness exercises, such as focused breathing, meditation or journaling, can help you stay present and reduce mental clutter. Even spending five to ten minutes practising mindfulness daily can decrease stress and anxiety levels. This mental clarity allows you to make better decisions under pressure, respond calmly to challenges and maintain a balanced outlook.
It’s OK to ask for help
Sometimes work, especially when it’s consistently hard, can be overwhelming. A workplace where professional support is encouraged is a good culture. The Burnt Chef Project have a hotline which anyone in the industry can talk through their problems in a safe, confidential way and will be offered help and advice. There is no need to suffer in silence.
Call The Burnt Chef Project on 1800 730 931 or for workplace resources and more tips visit: theburntchefproject.com
