Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), a member of OneCare Group, urges the superyacht industry to follow the example of the cruising sector in implementing comprehensive mental health training programs for their crews
Mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue among superyacht crew members, warns MHSS. Known for its luxury and opulence, the superyacht sector demands impeccable service from its crews for owners and guests, often with long working hours and under intense supervision.
The lack of a clear boundary between professional and personal interactions, combined with high expectations and the stigma surrounding mental health topics, can lead to burnout, stress, and other psychological challenges.
During recent mental health training programs for yacht crews, MHSS observed significant differences in the approach to mental health compared to other sectors. Training is primarily focused on service skills, while crew well-being topics are often neglected, the company reported.
Working on a luxury yacht is often seen as a glamorous job, but the reality involves long hours, high service demands, and very little personal time, which creates significant stress. Yacht crews may hesitate to discuss mental health due to stigma and fear that it could jeopardize their reputation, said Charles Watkins, director and clinical psychologist at MHSS.
He added that close living quarters and the lack of formal processes for resolving conflicts can further increase tensions and negatively impact crew morale. Yacht owners can support their crews by protecting their rest hours, providing access to mental health resources, and encouraging open communication.
As we have seen in the cruising sector, implementing formal and effective mental health training programs can help crews cope with the unique challenges of their roles, providing them with the necessary tools and support, said Marinos Kokkinis, CEO of OneCare Group. Superyacht crews would benefit from the same.
Since owner engagement directly affects crew morale and mental health, it is essential that they foster a safe and inclusive working environment. This not only improves crew well-being but also enhances overall efficiency and service quality.
Source: pomorstvo.info
