Synergy in the Service Industry

Food preparation and service is one of the largest and fastest-growing occupations in Chaffee County.

• Unique Challenges: Service workers face high job-related stress, irregular hours, low job security, and limited access to healthcare.
• Lack of Insurance: Many workers are ineligible for employer-sponsored health insurance and often fall into a coverage gap—earning too much for Medicaid but too little for private insurance.
• High Stress Environment: Long hours and demanding customer interactions contribute to physical and emotional stress, increasing vulnerability to mental health issues.
• Substance Misuse: The food service industry has the highest rate of substance use disorder and third highest for heavy alcohol use among all sectors, according to SAMHSA.
• Mental Health Crisis: Reports show 63% of food and beverage professionals suffer from depression, and 53% feel overwhelmed, highlighting the urgent need for support.
• Suicide Risk: A 2021 report identified bartenders, chefs, and head cooks among the occupations with the highest suicide rates for women, emphasizing the critical need for targeted interventions.
• Community Impact: Addressing these issues is vital not just for the individuals but for the overall health and well-being of the Chaffee County community.