The life of a seafarer is far from ordinary, long durations away from home, confined living and working spaces, and the absence of usual social networks are commonplace, these factors can lead to feelings of isolation and stress, which, if not addressed, can escalate into more serious mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
We all encounter stressful events in our personal, professional or social life. It is important to remember that not all stress is negative, some stress is positive, motivating us to maximise our productivity and creativity.
On the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women The Seafarers’ Charity, UK P&I Club and TK Foundation are announcing they have joined forces to commit to three years of funding for the next stage of development of Safer Waves.
Self-esteem can heavily influence people's choices and decisions - it serves a motivational function by making it more or less likely that people will take care of themselves and explore their full potential.
In this article, we look at why depression and anxiety in men so often go undetected and unrecognised, especially in male-dominated environments such as seafaring, and what can be done to address this issue.
Homesickness is the emotional distress that we experience when adjusting to new circumstances or surroundings when away from home and feeling cut off from our regular support system.
A life at sea entails dangers that are not present in many other occupations, this advice outlines what a panic disorder is, the symptoms to looks for, the characteristics of such disorders, the treatments and how seafarers can get help
Grief is the emotional suffering we experience when we lose someone or something valuable to us; this advice covers the emotional reactions one may experience, the stages, signs and symptoms of grief as well as how to cope with it
The UK Club Crew Health team were recently asked to source support for seafarers who had sadly witnessed the unexpected death of a fellow crewmember. Months later, despite initial counselling, the crew was still experiencing flashbacks and anxiety. They were suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) recognised the negative effect that bullying and harassment can have on seafarer health and wellbeing, and have voted to bring these serious issues under Regulation 4.3 - the health and safety protection and accident protection code.
The Crew Health team are delighted to have launched a collaboration with Andrew Johnson, to offer UK Club Members exclusive access to mindfulness recordings.
Earlier this year the Club supported the production of the Human Rights at Sea mental health welfare leaflet "Remaining Resilient after Traumatic Events"
Mental health affects crew of all ages, nationalities and ranks. A recent analysis of crew mental health revealed anxiety, social isolation, pressure of work and disturbed sleep can affect crew, all of which can negatively influence their mental health.
