Mental health providers report rise in seafarer distress during the holiday season
Mental health specialists working with seafarers report a noticeable increase in contacts during the holiday season, with loneliness, anxiety, low mood and sleep disturbance among the most common concerns raised.
Mental Health Support Solutions, which provides psychological support to seafarers globally, a member of leading health and wellbeing service provider, OneCare Group, said December and early January consistently bring higher volumes of requests for support, particularly from those working through extended contracts or separated from family during the holidays.
Charles Watkins (pictured, far left), Director of Clinical Operations at Mental Health Support Solutions, and a Clinical Psychologist, urges maritime employers to reinforce support pathways for crew members who may be struggling and to not rely on crew resilience.
He said: “For seafarers, the holiday season can sharpen feelings of isolation and emotional fatigue. Family-centred celebrations ashore, missed leave, delayed crew changes and financial worries often converge at this time of year. These factors can reduce emotional resilience and make it harder for individuals to manage stress without support.”
Marinos Kokkinis (left), CEO of OneCare Group, said: “There is still an assumption that seafarers will simply cope, even during periods that are emotionally demanding. The increase in contacts we see through our partners suggests the holiday season is a pressure point that deserves more attention and earlier intervention.”
Medical professionals also highlighted the importance of addressing wellbeing alongside physical health. Dr. Jens Tülsner (right), CEO of Marine Medical Solutions and a member of OneCare Group, explained that simple actions can help counter the effects of stress, such as finding time and space for reflection and moments of joy can support both mental and physical health, even in demanding environments.
From a lifestyle and wellbeing perspective, WellAtSea Managing Director Gisa Paredes (far right) advised: “Enjoy any bite of good food you consciously decide to take. Stay connected with loved ones where possible and with those around you on board. The decision to seek moments of joy matters.”
The data emerging from OneCare Group providers highlight the need for shipping companies to prioritise consistent, visible wellbeing support during the holiday season, rather than relying on assumed resilience.