Leading health and wellness platform OneCare Group is calling on shipping leaders to recognise the immense pressures facing today's seafarers and ensure health and wellbeing is treated as a safety-critical issue, as the industry celebrates Day of the Seafarer this week.
From the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Strait of Hormuz to prolonged periods away from home and the growing operational demands placed on crews, seafarers are increasingly being asked to navigate a world marked by uncertainty and instability while ensuring global supply chains continue to function.
Whether transiting high-risk regions, adapting to rapidly changing security situations, or facing the psychological strain that comes with operating under constant pressure, today's seafarers are carrying far more than cargo. Behind every vessel movement are individuals making personal sacrifices and managing risks that are often invisible to those on shore, yet essential to keeping the global economy moving.
Marinos Kokkinis, CEO of OneCare Group, said: “Over the past year, seafarers have found themselves on the front line of some of the world's most significant geopolitical challenges. While global events dominate headlines, it is often the men and women at sea who are left to manage the operational realities and personal consequences. They continue to deliver for the world under increasingly difficult circumstances, frequently working in environments defined by uncertainty, heightened security concerns and prolonged stress. Their resilience is extraordinary, but resilience alone is not enough. As an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure they are supported, protected and cared for both at sea and ashore."
The pressures associated with modern seafaring can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, particul arly during periods of heightened uncertainty or when operating in high-risk regions.Through its member companies Mental Health Support Solutions, OneLearn Global, WellAtSea and Marine Medical Solutions, OneCare Group calls for continued investment in the people behind global trade, recognising not only the value they deliver, but also the risks they carry on behalf of the world every day.
Mariana Charalambous, Managing Director of Mental Health Support Solutions, said: “When we talk about risk at sea, we often think first about physical safety. However, the psychological impact of prolonged stress, uncertainty and isolation can be equally significant. Seafarers working in challenging environments need access to professional mental health support that is accessible, confidential and tailored to the realities of life at sea. Recognising the risks they face also means recognising the importance of protecting their mental wellbeing."
Supporting wellbeing extends beyond crisis response and includes helping seafarers maintain healthy habits, resilience and a sense of connection throughout their time onboard.
Gisa Paredes, Managing Director of WellAtSea, explained: “The maritime industry depends on people, and people perform best when they feel supported, valued and connected. The risks seafarers face are not only operational; they can also affect motivation, wellbeing and quality of life. Creating opportunities for crews to engage in healthy activities, build positive routines and remain connected can make a meaningful difference to their overall wellbeing. At the same time ensuring leaders are in place who demonstrate this culture is essential to driving forward the welfare of crews.”
Dr Jens Tülsner, CEO and Founder of Marine Medical Solutions, said having immediate access to medical supplies and equipment is crucial to ensuring the health of crews, and shipping leaders have a responsibility to ensure seafarers’ health is not sacrificed when they are away at sea,
He said: “Seafarers routinely work in environments where immediate access to healthcare is not available. In high-risk operating areas, that challenge can become even greater. Ensuring crews have access to expert medical advice, telemedical support and effective healthcare pathways is essential for safeguarding those who keep global trade moving. As an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure that support is available whenever and wherever it is needed."
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