If you’re a leader in the boating industry, chances are your team has experienced heightened stress, burnout, or even deeper mental health challenges in the last several years. And you’re not alone. A growing number of marine dealers are facing the same concerns regarding mental health at work.
“We have had multiple staff develop addiction and mental health problems from being at home for so long. We are providing help but often too late as they do not want to talk about it as they are embarrassed.”
As the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) continues to support its members, we’ve compiled practical, research-backed strategies to help you foster a workplace where well-being is a priority.
1. Talk Openly About Mental Health
A 2020 study from Mind Share Partners revealed that at least 60% of employees experience symptoms of a mental health condition each year.
As a leader, talking about these challenges can help reduce stigma, encourage open dialogue, and ultimately support employee retention and performance.
Tips:
- Use inclusive language like stress, anxiety, and depression
- Share your own experiences (when appropriate)
- Normalize the idea that mental health impacts everyone
2. Regularly Check in with Your Team
According to Harvard Business Review, if an employee confides in you:
- Thank them for their trust
- Listen without judgment
- Avoid overpromising
- Maintain confidentiality
- Refer to expert resources
The goal? Make yourself “tell-able.”
3. Be a Role Model
Authenticity goes a long way. By demonstrating your own efforts to prioritize mental health – whether it’s taking time off or using mindfulness strategies – you empower your team to do the same.
4. Offer Flexibility When Possible
Flexibility doesn’t have to compromise productivity. In fact, it can boost it.
Example from MRAA:
- Expanded summer hours earlier in the year
- “No questions asked” mental health days
- Reduced red tape around time-off requests
These changes acknowledged the team’s hard work and gave them space to recharge.
5. Promote Available Resources
Even if you’re not a mental health expert, you can be a connector.
If you offer health insurance:
- Highlight what mental health services are covered
- Share contact info in multiple formats (email, signage, internal docs)
Free Resources to Share:
- CDC Mental Health Tools
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or call 800-273-8255
6. Invest in Ongoing Education
Burnout isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a productivity killer. Dealer Week 2020’s session on “Move Beyond Burnout” with David Spader helped dealership leaders rediscover their personal motivation and empower their teams. MRAA Silver and Gold Members can access this session for free at MRAATraining.com.
Watch for new mental health webinars and learning opportunities from MRAA. Better yet; ask your team what support they’d like to see.
You’re Not Alone
Whether you’re experiencing stress yourself, supporting team members, or a little of both – know this: there’s strength in community. At MRAA, we believe that dealer success is built on dealer well-being.
Related Resources:
- Contact MRAA for Support
- MRAA Member Mental Health Resource Sheet (PDF)
- Dealer Week Education Access
Note: This resource was originally published in March 2021 when COVID-19 was still prevalent. It has been reviewed and updated as of June 2025.
Want more leadership strategies like this? Subscribe to Toolbox for weekly resources and proven tips delivered to your inbox.
