Mental health issues among seafarers have long been a pressing concern, but the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, thrusting them into the forefront of maritime discussions. Crew members navigating through the pandemic have faced an array of additional stressors while at sea, ranging from anxieties about family members back home, particularly those residing in high COVID-prevalence regions, to extended contract durations, travel restrictions hindering their return home, and the inability to properly mourn the loss of loved ones. These stressors compounded with the typical challenges inherent to life at sea, such as confined living quarters, potential interpersonal conflicts, and the monotony of extended contracts, have significantly contributed to heightened mental health risks within the maritime community.
Isolation emerges as a central factor driving mental health issues among seafarers, as many feel disconnected from their usual support systems. Language and cultural barriers further complicate the situation, hindering some crew members from seeking help when needed. Moreover, certain cultural norms may discourage seeking assistance, thereby delaying early identification of mental health issues and increasing the risk of suicide. Studies have indicated that up to 20% of seafarers have contemplated suicide, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Addressing these mental health challenges requires proactive measures at both the individual ship and corporate levels. Officers, who may also be significantly impacted, necessitate support alongside crew members, calling for collaborative solutions both onboard and ashore. Beyond the immediate implications for individual well-being, mental health issues among crew members also pose risks to maritime safety, as they may increase the likelihood of errors and accidents.
Importantly, underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are often exacerbated by the conditions at sea. Therefore, it is imperative to include mental health screening as a fundamental component of Pre-Employment Medical Examinations (PEME) and Regular Employment Medical Examinations (REME) programs.
Advocating for comprehensive PEME services, AP Companies stresses the importance of integrating mental health assessments into these evaluations to safeguard the well-being of crew members and mitigate potential financial and security risks.
Furthermore, the impact of other medical conditions on mental health cannot be overlooked, including the effects of medications used to treat underlying illnesses and the challenges in accessing appropriate medical care and chronic medications while at sea.
Recognizing the tendency for psychological stress to manifest as physical symptoms among crew members, known as somatization, highlights the complexity of addressing mental health issues within the maritime industry. Effective management necessitates a holistic approach that considers both the physical and psychological aspects of well-being.
COVID-19 has introduced additional emotional and behavioral concerns for seafarers, including heightened feelings of isolation, loneliness, and stigma. Moreover, recovery from the virus may leave individuals vulnerable to a range of mental health issues, collectively referred to as “Long COVID,” which must be addressed with equal urgency.
To tackle these challenges, comprehensive support systems must be established for seafarers, encompassing onboard assistance, additional training for crew and captains, and culturally sensitive support programs. Embracing diverse modalities such as videos, telephonic or online interventions, and required educational materials can enhance accessibility and efficacy in addressing mental health concerns among seafarers.
