Many seafarers still fear the stigma of speaking openly about their struggles while working at sea. It can be hard for seafarers to talk about their worries, and the fear of being judged or lowering morale among crew often keeps them silent. When seafarers are concerned about their families, their finances, their future, they can feel powerless and isolated.
Being part of a small crew is inherently challenging. The work is relentless, and emotions such as loneliness, fear and boredom can be difficult to endure. It is well-known that a happy crew makes for a safe, efficient ship and caring for people’s wellbeing is good for seafarers and the shipping industry.
Stella Maris is a global maritime charity which knows that face-to-face interaction makes a huge difference. More than anything, its chaplains and ship-visiting volunteers are a friend in port, a listening ear, a welcoming smile. When you ask seafarers about life at sea, they often say they miss the feeling of being connected. Human connection is what Stella Maris provides in 335 ports across 57 countries around the world.
Stella Maris has launched its latest Life At Sea Report, with a special focus on mental health and human connection. As with previous years, the Report features excellent case studies of how Stella Maris’ support has provided a lifeline for many seafarers caught up in crises, but it also shines a light on the vital importance of thousands of daily human interactions in improving the mental health of those men and women spending long periods at sea.
It includes examples of Ukrainian seafarers anxious about their future and that of their families, a case of a seafarer in emotional distress after being arrested, and a crew under enormous financial strain after not being paid for weeks. Underlying all this, the Report also highlights how Stella Maris’ partnership with the shipping industry including P&I Clubs, shipping companies and other welfare agencies, has been vital in addressing and solving crews’ concerns.
Stella Maris has chaplains around the world, in all cultures, and with decades of experience they have a really good feeling for culture and what that means for mental and physical health. These small things – going on board, chatting to crews, asking about their families – they are not small at all. They are huge.
Download Stella Maris’ 2024 Life At Sea Report here.
