OneCare Group has stated that the shipping industry must listen more to the experiences of seafarers to create work environments that genuinely support their mental health and well-being. This warning was issued on the occasion of World Mental Health Day on October 10.
Emphasis on Real Experiences of Seafarers
This year's World Mental Health Day theme, "Real Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change," calls for a meaningful role for individuals with personal experiences in shaping the policies and services that affect them. OneCare Group believes we must go beyond encouraging seafarers to talk about mental health. Their experiences should influence how ships are managed, how leaders are trained, how wellness programs are designed, and how psychological and medical support is provided.
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Challenges of Mental Health for Seafarers
Marinos Kakinis, CEO of OneCare Group, stated: "Seafarers work under immense pressures. Geopolitical instability, fatigue, long periods away from family, increasing legal requirements, and rapidly changing technologies all add to the stresses of this profession. We cannot decide from the shore how well-being at sea should be without listening to the voices of those who experience these pressures. Asking seafarers to speak up is only valuable if we are ready to act on what they say."
Gise Paridis, CEO of WellAtSea, added: "The well-being of seafarers cannot be addressed through public initiatives. Life at sea presents specific challenges regarding sleep, physical activity, nutrition, social interaction, and maintaining healthy routines during long periods away from home. When we listen to seafarers and understand the pressures they face daily, we can create practical support that makes healthier behaviors a part of life on board."
Finally, Marina Charalambous, CEO of MHSS, stated that identifying the real experiences regarding why some seafarers avoid seeking psychological support is very important. "Having mental health services does not mean that a person feels comfortable using them. We need to understand the barriers from the seafarer's perspective: confidentiality, stigma, cultural attitudes, and concerns about their job. Listening to these experiences helps us create support that people can actually trust and use."
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