The holidays can be a particularly rough time of year for so many people for so many reasons. For some, there is the pressure to be happy or unrealistic expectations of the season. Others might feel lonely and isolated during a time that is supposed to be filled with friends and family. Add the stress of the busy hospitality season and this could be a recipe for disaster. 

Let your team know that they matter and that they have resources. The 988 Lifeline is free and available to everyone across the United States. If you or someone you know is having difficulty dealing with: 

  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm 
  • A friend or a loved one experiencing emotional crisis 
  • Emotional stress for any reason, including: 
    • Depression or anxiety 
    • Feelings of isolation or loneliness 
    • Trauma 
    • Mental health conditions and symptoms 
    • Economic or relationship worries 
    • Abuse 
    • Worries about drug or alcohol abuse

Even if someone is unsure about the need for help, they should call or text 988 anyway. The crisis counselors on the other end of the phone are trained to find resources for those in need. 

Callers can expect an automated answer when they first dial in, so they have the option to select separate hotlines for veterans in crisis, Spanish language speakers, LGBTQI+ youth or the Native and Strong lifeline. You can also press 0 to skip the options and move to a live counselor. 

If you are looking for resources to post in your break room or in your restrooms for guests, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), has a whole page of different designs and logos in several languages that you can print and hang where you need them. You can also use them to share on social media or wherever you want to share information digitally with your team and guests. 

The Washington Hospitality Association also has a listing full of resources for mental health, some of which are specifically for those who work in hospitality.  You can also watch our webinar from November 2022 with representatives from Behavioral Health & Recovery, a division of the Washington State Healthcare Authority, which discusses 988 and the options the program offers.