Don't wait to worry | Mental Health Crisis

Audio version of this article

THE CASE

Region: Europe, Antibes
Crewmember Profile: Male, 29 years old, Deckhand
Incident: Mental health crisis during peak charter season
MedAire Services Used: Telemedical advice and counseling
What Happened?

At the start of a busy charter season, a deckhand returned to the yacht after a brief trip home for a family funeral.
Though he appeared composed, he was quietly grieving the recent loss of a close relative.
He didn’t share much with the crew and tried to push through the season without addressing how he was feeling.
As the weeks progressed, the combination of grief, long hours, and charter demands began to take a toll. He became increasingly withdrawn and irritable.
During a routine shift, he experienced sudden onset palpitations and shortness of breath.
Concerned it might be a cardiac issue, the captain contacted MedAire for immediate medical guidance.

MEDAIRE'S RESPONSE

Initial consultation with MedAire: Medical ruled out a cardiac event and identified the symptoms as likely stress-induced—possibly a panic attack.
This opened the door to a deeper conversation: Initially reluctant to disclose, the crewmember admitted to the MedAire nurse that he had been struggling, recently experiencing panic attacks and suicidal thoughts.
MedAire recognized the urgency: Providing immediate remote mental health support and working with the yacht’s management to arrange an offboarding.
Remote psychiatric assessment: Through MedAire’s trusted partner, confirmed there was no immediate risk to life and urgent psychiatric input was not required.
He was safely removed from the environment: MedAire facilitated further support for his return to home location to ensure appropriate therapies were commenced in a timely manner so the panic attacks could be better controlled.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

Mental health issues can manifest physically: MedAire’s medically-led support allowed us to provide better overall management of the crewmember’s health.
Mental health issues can build up over time: Especially in the superyacht environment where there can often be little privacy or downtime.

Suicidal thoughts are a medical emergency: Early intervention and access to professional support can save lives.
Crew won’t always speak up: Especially if they fear stigma, breaches of confidentiality, or career repercussions. It is essential to foster a culture where mental health is prioritised and respected just as much as physical health.

Best Practices for Supporting Mental Health at Sea

Provide confidential access to support: MedAire’s medical team act as the first port of call to facilitate counseling referrals, as part of a clinically-informed care plan. We offer crew a safe, confidential (unless there is a risk to life) space to talk, whilst considering their overall health
Consider mental health first aid or training: Empowering crewmember to recognize early signs of distress can prevent crises.
Have a clear protocol for mental health emergencies: Just like with physical injuries, there should be a plan for escalation and support.

Emotional Support is a vital part of the MedAire membership, click below to find out more.

Don't wait to worry | Mental Health Crisis

THE CASE

MEDAIRE'S RESPONSE

KEY LEARNING POINTS

Best Practices for Supporting Mental Health at Sea

MedAire360

Tags