Knowing how to help a crewmate in a life-threatening situation could save their life. However, apart from physical injuries, people onboard often experience mental struggles.
As specified in the STCW Table A-VI/1-3 of Chapter VI (STCW 2010 Res 2) “Specification of minimum standard of competence in elementary first aid”, seafarers should have an understanding of immediate measures to be taken in cases of emergency, including the ability to position casualty, apply resuscitation techniques, control bleeding and apply appropriate measures of basic shock management.
Additionally, in the aftermath of an incident on board that leads to serious or fatal injuries, the wellbeing of fellow crewmembers must not be forgotten, especially when there is potential to re-open emotional wounds during an investigation, the NorthStandard P&I Club stressed. According to Güven Kale, Chief Clinical Officer (CCO), MHSS, by its nature, the maritime sector pushes the limits of the physical and psychological conditions of seafarers. These people need to be understood, seen, and heard more, she argued.
Seafarers may struggle with anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation which may result in panic attacks, depressive episodes and reduced situational awareness, which could easily compromise their safety and the safety of their crewmates. Consequently, it would greatly benefit seafarers to be trained on common mental health problems, how to identify the signs of mental health problems or crisis and how to provide preliminary and suitable support before the mental health problem becomes worse. MHSS has stressed that a 360-degree support system which covers psychological care, medical care, logistics, financial issues, and spiritual or faith-based help will help towards.
Where we stand
The IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) has decided to initiate a review of the STCW Convention and Code that will go through several phases, with a view to be completed by the autumn of 2027. Having recognized the need to tackle bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, including sexual assault and sexual harassment (SASH), with the objective of ensuring a safe workplace, MSC 105 instructed the HTW Sub-Committee to develop and finalize, as a matter of priority, STCW training provisions addressing bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, including SASH.
While addressing bullying and SASH is a great step towards fostering mental wellness, the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code should identify tools and methods to allow seafarers to understand mental health and how to provide psychological assistance when they or their crewmate needs it. In any case, until all this becomes mandatory, the responsibilities of companies should be reviewed to consider ways to promote mental health and well-being on board ship.
Did you know?
Psychological First Aid (PFA) was defined by Everly and Flynn in 2005 as a compassionate and supportive presence designed to mitigate acute distress and assess the need for continued mental health care.
