Capt, Kelly Gordon understands the long hours, high pressure, and even isolation some superyacht crewmembers endure. She’s seen it as a captain and hears from crew globally, since she frequently speaks about mental health. It’s why she’s launched the non-profit Yachtie Minds Matter. The organization intends to help crew get the therapy and other support they need. Simultaneously, the non-profit wants to help yachting professionals tap these resources.
According to Gordon, a recent survey she conducted reveals alarming figures. Forty-six percent of the respondents say their mental health has declined since joining the yachting industry. Just 34 percent indicate that the yacht upon which they work or the business employing them provides mental-health policies or resources. Additionally, 67 percent say their experiences in the yachting industry have made they consider leaving. Besides bullying, harassment, and feeling isolated by being away from family and friends, respondents name drug and alcohol abuse as problems.
Independent previous surveys have found similar statistics among crew. In fact, a 2018 survey by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), which supports seafarers, revealed that 82 percent of yacht crew felt low morale sometimes, often, or always. Additionally, 53 percent of female crew experienced discrimination, harassment, or bullying and nearly one-third of male crew experienced the same. Offending parties ranged from fellow crew to captains as well as owners or guests.
Overall, most people—not just in yachting—hesitate seeking mental-health help because of stigma or cost. “Mental health is an issue that affects everyone,” Gordon says. “I was at my lowest point in life when I went to therapy, and now I can say I am my happiest ever after putting in the work.” She created Yachtie Minds Matter to make it easier to access therapy. “By doing so, I hope it creates a healthier, more supportive industry for everyone!”
Specifically, Yachtie Minds Matter is prioritizing a few things. For example, it’s providing financial support for those seeking professional mental-health help. Additionally, it’s offering Mental Health First Aid certification courses and additional resources. Promoting open conversations and partnering with owners, management companies, and crew organizations are goals, too.
“I won’t stop until all seafarers receive the basic rights they deserve: a mentally and physically safe space to thrive,” Gordon asserts.
The non-profit is accepting donations from fellow crewmembers, yacht owners, and industry professionals. It pledges that all funds go directly to the mental-health efforts. A form for crew to request therapy assistance will be available in February 2025.
Yachtie Minds Matter yachtiemindsmatter.org
Leave a Reply