Tag: mental health

The UK launched the 2020 amendment Code of safe working practices for merchant seafarers focusing on improving the health and safety of the crew primarily on board UK registered ships.

Nottingham Business School at Nottingham Trent University released ‘Psychological Wellbeing and Safety in a Global Context: A Rapid Evidence Assessment’. The project aims to develop a greater understanding of the occupational factors that contribute to the mental health crisis, and recommend effective interventions.

A new report by CNA, a US-based nonprofit organization, is looking at ways industries and governments have mitigated the spread of COVID-19 through the blue economy, while at the same time "jeopardizing the material and emotional wellbeing of seafarers". 

A team from the World Maritime University (WMU) launched a report, focusing on the systemic failures in the implementation of the regulatory regime for seafarers’ hours of work and rest, undermining the credibility of international regulations relating to working hours.

The Mental Health Support Solution urges the industry to provide support for crew by investing in Psychological First Aid (PFA) for those suffering traumatic experiences. Clinical Psychologist and Managing Director, Charles Watkins highlights the importance of providing aid to the crew members that have experienced a piracy attack, referring to the hijacking of the oil tanker Nave Andromeda just off the Isle of Wight last month.

Lloyd's Register conducted a survey on on maritime workers’ wellbeing during COVID-19. The survey revealed that seafarers feel forgotten and abandoned, keeping in mind that the crew change crisis is ongoing.

In response to the operational disruption the pandemic has caused to crew changes, which has subjected seafarers to increased levels of stress and anxiety, Steamship Mutual announced a partnership with Mental Health Support Solutions, aimed directly at the wellbeing of ships’ crews. 

The pandemic has led to increased stress, fear and anxiety. People are worried about their personal health as well as their beloved ones’ whereas uncertainty about an effective cure prevails. What is more, public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely while many struggle with their financial situation.

Mission to Seafarer published its latest Seafarers Happiness Index for 2020 reporting seafarers' experience between July to August 2020, highlighting that happiness increased in the third quarter, but seafarers' hope for repatriation has been lost.

People around the world are taking the #PledgeToPause and verify facts before sharing online. The things we share online can spread like wildfire, and especially during current time sharing responsibly is crucial.