Crew Health Advice: Time To Talk Day - A Focus on Seafarers

Time to Talk Day 2025: A Focus on Seafarers

Time to Talk Day is an annual event dedicated to encouraging open conversations about mental health. In 2025, it will be observed on 6 February. This day is crucial for breaking the silence surrounding mental health struggles and inviting people to share their feelings with others. For seafarers, who often face unique challenges due to their isolated and demanding work environment, this day holds special significance.

The Importance of Mental Health Conversations for Seafarers

Seafarers spend long periods away from their families and friends, often in challenging and stressful conditions. The nature of their work can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, initiatives like Time to Talk Day are vital in promoting mental well-being among seafarers.

Contributions from Seafarers' Charities

Several organisations are dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of seafarers. Here are some key contributions from notable seafarers' charities:

Sailors' Society: Sailors' Society is a global maritime welfare charity that has been supporting seafarers and their families for over 200 years. They offer a range of services, including a Crisis Response Network, which provides immediate support during emergencies. Their Wellness at Sea programme focuses on the holistic well-being of seafarers, offering resources and training to help them manage stress and maintain mental health. Their Peer to Peer Programme has proved hugely popular with seafarers globally putting them in touch with other crews around the world, sharing joys and challenges and getting advice and thoughts from others in the same position.

• Crisis Response Network: Sailors Society
• Wellness at Sea: Sailors Society
• Peer to Peer Support network: Sailors Society

Mission to Seafarers: The Mission to Seafarers operates in over 200 ports worldwide, providing help and support to seafarers. Their initiatives include the WeCare program, sponsored by the UK Club, which offers bespoke mental health and well-being training to crew members and their families. This program covers various aspects of mental health, including social communication, financial well-being, and coping strategies for long-distance relationships. in 2021, Mission to Seafarers also adopted LivingWorks SafeTALK course, promoting the welfare of seafarers and training Port Chaplains and volunteers as Suicide Alert Helpers. 

• WeCare Programme: WeCare Programme | Supporting Seafarers | The Mission to Seafarers
• SafeTALK: Delivering suicide prevention support for seafarers through LivingWorks SafeTALK program | The Mission to Seafarers

International Seafarers' Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN): ISWAN is an international non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of seafarers and their families. They offer free, confidential, multilingual helpline available 24/7, providing emotional and practical support. ISWAN's Social Interaction Matters (SIM) project promotes increased quality social interaction and rest time on board, which are crucial for mental well-being.

• Social Interaction Matters (SIM): Social Interaction Matters (SIM) Project - International Seafarers' Welfare & Assistance Network
• SeafarerHelp: SeafarerHelp - International Seafarers' Welfare & Assistance Network

How to Participate in Time to Talk Day

Seafarers and their supporters can participate in Time to Talk Day in various ways:

• Host a "Tea and Talk" Session: Invite colleagues for a relaxed chat over a hot drink. This can be a comforting way to open up about mental health.
• Create a Conversation Corner: Set up a cozy spot on board where crew members can take a break and talk. Provide conversation starters to help initiate deeper discussions.
• Share Your Story: Use social media to share personal experiences with mental health and encourage others to do the same. Adding a hashtag like #TimetoTalkDay can connect you with a broader community.
• Get Artsy: Express feelings through art, whether it is doodles, paintings, or poetry. This can be a less direct way to share emotions.
• Go for a Walk and Talk: Sometimes, it is easier to talk while moving. Invite someone for a walk around the deck or port area. Fresh air can improve mood and make conversations flow more easily.

By participating in Time to Talk Day, seafarers can help break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their struggles and seeking help.