OneCare Group calls for action over mental health of seafarers to protect the wellbeing of crew before crisis hits

Leading maritime health and wellness service provider OneCare Group is urging stakeholders and leading figures of the industry to ensure mental health is engrained in company culture to give seafarers the tools to know where to turn in the case of emergency situations.



As industries across the globe shine a spotlight on mental health this month, OneCare Group, together with its member companies, Marine Medical Solutions, Mental Health Support Solutions, WellAtSea, and OneLearn Global,is calling on the industry to ensure support is in place before emergency situations occur.



Suicide is one of the leading causes of deaths among men and with males dominating the seafaring community, it is crucial the industry fosters an environment where crewmates are open about their problems, and there is a transparent dialogue between senior and junior ranking crew members, says Marinos Kokkinis (pictured), Chief Executive Officer of OneCare Group.



“It is necessary for companies to adopt a proactive approach rather than reactive. There are many other challenges aside from loneliness and isolation for seafarers to face in today’s world. There are financial pressures, increased screen time use, and global crises such as the Russia/Ukraine conflict and increased risk of attack.



“It is always shocking and upsetting to hear of a suicide onboard, and that somehow the industry has failed that individual. We also know the statistics don’t reflect the true picture and one suicide is one too many. Through predictive intelligence, which means using data, assessments and behavioural patterns to help identify if someone might be struggling prior to embarking a vessel, holistic care, and an open and transparent culture onboard, we can work towards an environment where crew members know where to turn before their mental health reaches crisis point,”



World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, serves as a reminder of the universal right to mental wellbeing. For seafarers, mental health is not just a personal issue, but a critical occupational concern. This year the theme is focussing on emergency situations and catastrophes.



"Seafarers are the invisible lifeblood of global trade, yet their mental health needs are often overlooked," added Mr Kokkinis. “Our mission is to change that narrative by ensuring that mental health care is not a luxury, but a fundamental part of the support structure provided to every seafarer, regardless of rank or role. The industry must start looking at mental health support as a culture rather than an added benefit. “



Charles Watkins, Founder and Director of Clinical Operations, added: “We must not underestimate the impact of external factors when it comes to mental health. Increased exposure to toxic content online as well as over-reliance on AI tools is a growing concern. The advancement of technology is on one hand letting maritime explore a world that wasn’t available to them before, but we must be aware of the dangers.



“It is also important for the industry to step away from awareness campaigns and look into embedding mental health protocols into safety management systems. There should be clear, standardised pathways for crisis response. Mental health support is a crucial part of ensuring seafarers’ safety and need to stop being overlooked.”



Dr Jens Tülsner, CEO of Medical Marine Solutions believes it is essential for shipping operators to understand the clinical severity of a seafarer’s problems to determine the best course of action.



“Seafaring is one of the world’s most demanding occupations, marked by long periods away from home, exposure to isolation, unpredictable weather, and high workloads, Dr Tülsner said.



He added: “The unique occupational environment creates risk factors for a spectrum of mental health challenges ranging from mild anxiety to severe psychiatric crises. Understanding the clinical severity of these symptoms is essential for providing appropriate support, ensuring safety, and promoting long-term wellbeing among seafarers.



“Differentiating clinical severity is crucial for guiding appropriate responses. For mild to moderate concerns, onboard support and preventive strategies may suffice. Moderate to severe conditions often require professional therapeutic input and potential medical repatriation. Acute psychiatric emergencies necessitate immediate crisis management and shore-based treatment.”



Gisa Paredes, Managing Director at WellAtSea, believes digital platforms such as WellAtSea, which provide a gamified approach to lifestyle onboard, is a significant factor in closing the care gap at sea.

“By offering on-demand tools and resources, we’re enabling seafarers to take active ownership of their mental health, no matter where they are in the world," Ms Paredes said.

“Giving seafarers confidential access to mental health professionals, along with anonymous tools for self-assessment, allows us to identify potential risks early and respond with support while fully protecting the individual’s privacy.”

 

“Mental health shouldn’t be an add-on; it should be built into the very fabric of health and safety policy. Data helps us move from one-size-fits-all solutions to targeted, meaningful support.”