On September 10th, World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us of the sobering reality that more than 700,000 individuals take their own lives each year globally. This day is a stark reminder of the importance of mental health and the urgent need for effective interventions, particularly within high-stress industries like maritime, where not all seafarers feel comfortable about accessing mental health support services, in part due to cultural stigmas around mental health and concerns over confidentiality. There are other issues at play too.

Research findings: Mental health challenges in maritime

The Department for Transport (DfT) and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) conducted extensive research into seafarers’ mental health, revealing extreme challenges of the occupation. Seafarers often work in isolated, high-pressure environments that exacerbate mental health issues.

(You can access the full report here) 

According to the report, despite the mental health challenges faced by seafarers, there was a widespread belief amongst those interviewed that the issue is not well enough understood across the industry. Seafarers themselves were described as lacking awareness around mental wellbeing, particularly by those who worked in charities and unions. These participants pointed out the “macho” and “masculine” nature of the occupation, which they felt has created a general reluctance among seafarers to openly talk about their mental wellbeing with peers. Moreover, shipowners recalled how seafarers have previously been told to “man-up” by shipping organisations as mental health issues are sometimes perceived to be a weakness, particularly in the fishing and merchant industries.

Participants discussed the influence of stigmas around mental health among certain nationalities. In such cases, mental health issues were described in the interviews as being stigmatised, frowned upon, and often dismissed, particularly so by seafarers from China, India, and the Philippines. Seafarers of these nationalities were considered reluctant to acknowledge any mental health issues and were also less inclined to admit such issues to others due to the associated stigma.

Suicide may be under-reported

It can be hard to get a sense of the scale of suicide. The report on suicide in maritime suggested a widespread sense that figures reporting suicide among seafarers are likely to be inaccurate and too low. Chaplains and unions, for example, described how they often speak to suicidal seafarers in their role, with “grey areas” or blurred lines between what does and doesn’t constitute a case of suicide – specifically in relation to deaths overboard where a body is not recovered. They described again some of the cultural barriers to addressing this issue – for example, the religious beliefs within a diverse and multicultural workforce.

This may be changing. At its Fourth Meeting (Part II), the Special Tripartite Committee (STC) of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006) adopted several amendments to the Code of the Convention, which are expected to enter into force on 23 December 2024, in accordance with Article XV, paragraph 7 of the MLC, 2006.

One of the amendments requires that all deaths of seafarers employed, engaged or working on board ships are adequately investigated and recorded, and reported on an annual basis to the Director-General of the International Labour Office to be published in a global register. The ILO in consultation with the Officers of the STC and the governments who sponsored this amendment to the MLC, 2006, has developed a brief questionnaire to support its implementation and the establishment of a global register on seafarer deaths.

Preventing suicide: The warning signs

Preventing suicide in the maritime industry requires awareness and proactive intervention. According to the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) 2021 guidelines, there are several warning signs that could indicate a seafarer is at risk of suicide. These include:

  • Excessive sadness or mood changes: Prolonged periods of sadness or sudden shifts in mood can be symptoms of depression, a major risk factor for suicide.

  • Sudden calmness: A sudden sense of calm after a period of depression may signal that a person has resolved to end their life.

  • Withdrawal: Avoiding social interaction or activities previously enjoyed can indicate depression. For instance, a crew member who typically participates in group meals might start skipping them and isolating themselves.

  • Changes in personality or appearance: A person contemplating suicide may exhibit changes in behaviour or show less concern for their personal appearance.

  • Engaging in dangerous or self-harmful behaviour: Reckless actions, such as unsafe driving or increased substance use, can suggest that a person no longer values their life.

  • Experiencing recent trauma or a major life crisis: Events such as the death of a loved one, a relationship breakdown, or serious financial problems can trigger suicidal thoughts.

Resources for seafarers

There are resources available to help seafarers manage mental health challenges. The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) offers several tools, including self-help guides, mental health infographics, and relaxation exercises. You can access these resources here: ISWAN Seafarer Health Information Programme: www.seafarerswelfare.org/seafarer-health-information-programme/good-mental-health

Additionally, the Mentally Healthy Ships guide provides valuable information for developing and implementing mental health policies on board vessels. You can find this guide here: Mentally Healthy Ships Guide: www.seafarerswelfare.org/seafarer-health-information-programme/good-mental-health/mentally-healthy-ships

Furthermore, the Mental Health Awareness Training for the Maritime Sector course is an excellent resource for both seafarers and those supporting them. This training can be accessed here: www.seafarerswelfare.org/our-work/mental-health-awareness-training-for-the-maritime-industry

Conclusion

The research underlines the critical importance of addressing mental health in the maritime industry. With suicide ranking as a significant cause of death among seafarers, it is clear that more needs to be done to support these individuals who work under incredibly challenging conditions. By recognising the warning signs, offering resources, and fostering an environment that prioritises mental well-being, the maritime industry can take meaningful steps to reduce the incidence of suicide among seafarers and improve their overall quality of life.