Seafarers need extra support during holiday season

Crew may feel isolation if they are away from loved ones at this time, according to Mental Health Support Solutions.

‘It is the time of year when people are more likely to feel undervalued if companies don’t put additional effort into supporting their crew,’ said Mental Health Support Solutions managing director Jannik Grothues.

SEAFARERS need extra support during the holiday season as they are often far away from their loved ones, according to a provider of professional psychological guidance to the maritime sector.

“It is the time of year when people are more likely to feel undervalued if companies don’t put additional effort into supporting their crew,” said Mental Health Support Solutions managing director Jannik Grothues.

“Other key workers such as nurses, the police or doctors may find themselves working during the festivities, but they will generally be able to organise a family celebration close to the actual holiday. But for many seafarers the best they can hope for is a short call to their families while they continue working many hundreds of miles away.”

While it may not be possible for mariners to get back home to spend time with their families, it is vital that companies do everything in their power to give them a sense of belonging, Mr Grothues said.

“Taking steps such as ensuring that traditional holiday food is available to the crew, giving them the opportunity to socialise with each other, and organising joint activities that they would be doing with their families — all of these can help alleviate the feelings of isolation that can come from being away from loved ones,” he added.

//Lloydslist