Blue-space therapy gains momentum as ocean-based programmes treat trauma and addiction

Former British army corporal Dave Phillips is circumnavigating the UK on two tall ships to raise funds for Turn to Starboard, a charity using sailing to treat PTSD.

• Phillips sought professional help for PTSD after a suicide attempt and was introduced to the sailing charity Turn to Starboard.
• Sophie Pyne, co-founder of Waves of Recovery, said the number of surf therapy organisations worldwide has grown from 50 in 2022 to over 100.
• Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard, said the sea reminds people they are alive and has awakened something in participants.
• Dr James Jung, a psychiatrist who runs a freediving centre, said recovery from trauma involves leaning into a process rather than a destination.