We're taking a moment to think about mental health in our food and drink community.

You can’t deny it, we have all at some point felt a negative feeling, be it fleeting or one that holds us and doesn’t let go... not easily anyhow. Some of us can shake these feelings, some of us sit in them, some of us just cannot shift them without a little help.  

Below is a little hug from the Food Drink Devon team - what we do to look after our own mental health, and a list of organisations and professionals that we as a food and drink community can approach if things are feeling a little too tough.

Clair x

Clair is co-owner of Shepherd Shack and is a Food Drink Devon Board Director

Walk with us this World Mental Health Day

On Friday 10th October a few Food Drink Devon members met up to walk around the Greendale Farm Shop trail. We grabbed a takeaway coffee, walked and chatted –  just for an hour.

It was so enjoyable we’re doing it again and any members who would like to come along are more than welcome! Meet at Oscar’s takeaway in the Greendale car park at 8.30am on Friday 14th November. Enjoy a takeaway coffee, a walk with like-minded people, lots of chat and fresh air. No expectations – just a stroll and some friendly faces.

What we do... it might look like what you do too.

Clair, Shepherd Shack 

“Looking after myself in these moments, I find really hard. I find myself checking that everyone else is ok first, then I can focus on Me. I’m a Work in Progress! I do know I feel so much better after a walk in nature. We’re surrounded by countryside and just stepping out feels so good. If the sun’s out, even better! On those grey days, it’s curling up with a ball of yarn and crocheting – I often forget that I’m creative beyond the workplace.” 

Richard Hunt, Hospitality Consultant 

“For my mind reset, I enjoy going fishing by the sea, open coast, sound of the waves... it really allows me to switch off and refresh my thoughts.” 

Andrea, Food Drink Devon 

“It’s important for me to be in the fresh air to keep my mind and body in a good place. A jog, cycle or swim, alone or with like-minded people - followed by good laugh and a cake - is a real boost."

Kate, Food Drink Devon 

“Gardening and baking are my de-stresses... getting out in the garden and fresh air and even better picking produce from the garden and cooking up and preserving stuff!"