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5 Tips For Better Mental Health At Sea

Posted by Ashley Wright

Being a yachtie is undoubtedly stressful and has the potential to cause a negative shift in one’s mental health.

 

No matter what your position is, you’ve experienced the unbelievable highs and painful lows that a yachting career has to offer. Due to the demanding, fast-paced life that one lives when catering to guests at sea, it can be easy to forget about maintaining your mental health. However, it is vital to prioritize your mental health for a variety of reasons.

 

Remaining mentally healthy is essential for your happiness, physical and mental well-being, success, and more. So how do you improve your mental health while working on water?

1. Spend breaks or down time practicing mindfulness

Spend Breaks

Photo by Katerina Jerabkova on Unsplash

Mindfulness means living in the present and objectively observing your feelings. It can be difficult not to worry about the future or focus on the past, but this practice is beneficial in reducing stress levels and gaining control. You may be drawn to social media during your break or lunch time, but that may cause you to spiral into a fear of missing out, or FOMO, along with other negative feelings. Try putting down the technology and laying down a yoga mat – it will alleviate your stresses in no time.

2. Exercise

Exercise

Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash

Exercising has been known to release endorphins, which produce a positive feeling in the body. It not only improves mental health, but it can also increase self-esteem and enhance sleep. If you have exercise equipment on-board and are able to utilize it, try consistently working out. Even a jog or walk off of the docked boat can be relieving.

3. Call or video chat a familiar face

Call or video chat a familiar face

Photo by Utsman Media on Unsplash

Sometimes seeing a familiar face, like a friend or family member can help reset your mind and feel more connected to your roots. It can make you feel especially supported when you’ve had a challenging day, or you feel burned out. Whether it’s one of your parents or your BFF, hopefully that person can put everything in perspective for you and remind you of the great things that await you when you return home.

4. Journal

Journal

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

Among other things, journaling is valuable in helping you identify your feelings and clearing your mind. Without a healthy way to express yourself, you may self-destruct or have a buildup of negative emotions. Having this release allows you to prioritize your problems, concerns, and any other issues that have been weighing on your mind.

5. Ask for help

Ask for help

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

Last, but not least, know that it is OK to ask for help! There is such a stigma around seeking help for mental health, but in reality, it makes you stronger. You will not be able to do your best at your job or truly be happy if you are suffering. Seeking out a trustworthy team member on board, a family member or friend, or external resources might end up saving your life. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable can be scary, but it is worth it.


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Ashley Wright

Hi! I’m Ashley! I am a recent graduate of Loyola University Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in multimedia journalism. My hobbies include reading, writing, and binge-watching the newest Netflix craze.

 

I hope to one day be a reporter, but I also have an interest in social work. When I’m not in school or working, you can find me relaxing with friends, shopping or working on my first novel. I’m so excited to be given the opportunity to write for OITA and I know it will benefit my journalism career. Feel free to reach out if you’re in need of a writer and check out my website!

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