MARATHON 4 MENTAL HEALTH
OUR STORY
Hey, I’m Mel
I wanted to find a way to offer a fully flexible marathon for crew to run, walk or hike wherever they are in the world, as well as a community 5k program. We put on relaxed runs, walks and hikes in multiple locations across major crewing hubs globally, to combat loneliness if it's biting, and give people a chance to meet in person if they are in the right place at the right time!
A key proponent of this marathon for me is that I wanted people to find the tools and resources to keep mentally safe on board, BEFORE they step onto a vessel or find themselves in a crisis situation in the middle of the ocean. Together, we’re building this resource via the quick grab guide ‘How to for Crew’ which we can offer for free to the industry as part of the work we do.
This is my story
When I was experiencing depression as a chef at sea and facing abuse & harassment head on I had NO IDEA where to turn.
Through this initiative we are connecting more people to the mental health resources that can keep them safe, while also creating a community outside their workplace for them to shake off the stress and harness the endorphins that can be hard to find at times.
I’ve found movement and getting outside (on dry land!) one of the best tonics for my health, something as a crew member working intense hours I found difficult to squeeze into busy seasons onboard.
We also use the marathon as a fundraising drive and connector to the awesome crew welfare non-profit and charitable work that already exists in the industry that crew might not already be aware of. Raising £16,700 in year one!
Thank you to everyone who has participated in our first year, and to the key industry players that come forward to back this initiative.
As Director I can only make so much impact on my own. But together we can make a huge difference.
Mel x
Our Vision
To create a world where crew feel supported, connected and empowered to prioritise their mental health, no matter where or how busy they are.
We envision a global community that openly discusses mental wellbeing, that moves to feel-good, and ensures everyone has access to the resources, understanding, and solidarity they need to thrive.
How Marathon For Mental Health came together...
260
participants
Our Impact
October 2025 was the very first Marathon 4 Mental Health, we went from a concept in 2024 to a 260 people strong community, spread across four continents!
£16,700
raised for charity
13
community activities held
20
industry stakeholders stepped up for crew welfare
Marathon For Mental Health aligns perfectly with MHG’s mission to give back to those who spend their lives at sea.
The event was well-publicised and well-run throughout and should absolutely be repeated. One thing I didn't anticipate was the marvellous sense of warmth and community that sprang up around the events and participants.
As well as achieving a terrific fundraising total for ISWAN, many of the participants enjoyed a boost to their mental wellbeing just from taking part.
All credit is due to Melanie's thoughtful planning, clarity of vision and drive for making everything happen.
Joanna Drysdale
Director, MHG Insurance
Download our FREE
‘How To’ for Crew Guide
A no bullshit guide. Developed with flag state, management & insurance providers, as well as mental health professionals. The guide includes how to:
Report abuse & harassment
Read your SEA contract
Support someone experiencing a panic attack
Evacuate a crew member in emotional need
Be an ally
Understand the role of insurance
Support sobriety on board
Navigate onboard eating disorders
Speak about suicide
Have better conversations on board,
Find support (directory), and feel good.
We also issue a printed version with all marathon entires with thanks to Burgess.