Food Chain - Issue 201a - September 2024 | Page 20

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SPOTTING THE SIGNS

First aid for mental health in the food sector
By Jenn Harris

In today ’ s volatile food sector , it is becoming ever more important for businesses to support colleagues who might be experiencing a mental health issue at work . Being adequately trained in first aid is one thing , but it ’ s important to recognize that it is an evolving topic and one that involves continuous education . Smaller food businesses in particular are often not equipped to deal with mental health concerns in the workplace . Whether that is someone suffering from emotional distress , identifying colleagues that may be at a higher risk of mental health difficulties , or those who have already experienced mental health concerns , it ’ s becoming important from a dayto-day perspective to give the people around you the support they need .

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