Finding Balance Behind the Pass: Hugh’s Fringe Survival Story

For many working in Edinburgh’s hospitality industry, August is a whirlwind. The Fringe brings excitement, energy and opportunity but also exhaustion, overwhelm and long hours. Hugh, a local chef, shares how he’s learned to protect his wellbeing during the busiest month of the year by setting boundaries, slowing down, and finding quiet moments outside the chaos.

August in Edinburgh is wild, honestly. There’s no other way to put it. I’ve lived in the city for years and I work as a chef, so The Fringe something I look forward to and dread at the same time. 

Don’t get me wrong, there’s a real buzz in the city this time of year. The energy can be class. There’s always something to do, stuff happening on every corner, music, comedy and your mates are always around but when you’re working in hospitality, it’s different. 

I live a bit outside the city centre and in August, it takes me twice as long to get in. Buses are packed, the roads are chaos, and you have to leave way earlier just to make it in on time. Half the time I’m knackered before I’ve even started my shift. 

Then the shifts themselves are longer, busier, and just full-on all the time. Everyone’s trying to keep up, and there’s no real break. You’re not allowed to take any time off either, which is wild because this is when you really need a break. 

There’s also this pressure to be out enjoying the festival when you’re not working. You finish a long shift and your pals are like, “We’re heading to a show or this night out, you should come!” And sometimes I do go, and it’s class. But other times I’m just shattered and just want to go home. It’s easy to feel guilty for not making the most of it, but I’ve learned to let that go. 

Over the years, I’ve figured out how to take better care of myself during The Fringe. When I first started out, I tried to do everything and it was too much. I make sure I actually take time to slow down and switch off, even if that just means lying on the sofa watching something easy or having a proper meal at home. I still make time for my mates, but I don’t feel like I have to say yes to every invite. We’ll catch up when we can, maybe go for a walk or breakfast on my day off. Getting out of the city helps too. A couple of hours away makes a massive difference and helps me feel like myself again. 

Do you live and/or work in Edinburgh and want to share your own experiences of mental health and wellbeing and the different ways keep you well? If you would like us to share your story, please email ithrive@health-in-mind.org.uk.