Final Declaration
As recent studies have shown, the mental health challenges faced by seafarers affect not only individual well-being but also the safety of ship operations and the overall efficiency of the maritime sector. According to a comprehensive study conducted by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and Yale University (Seafarer Mental Health Study, October 2019), rates of depression and anxiety among seafarers are significantly higher than in other occupational groups. The study found that 25% of seafarers reported symptoms of depression, 17% experienced anxiety, and 20% had suicidal ideation. These findings indicate the urgent need for more effective policies to support seafarers’ mental health.
The study also identified the most significant predictors of psychological issues among seafarers as job dissatisfaction, a lack of supportive company culture, and the presence of violence and threats in the working environment. Depression and anxiety levels were found to be significantly higher among those exposed to pressure, threats, and violence on board. Additionally, factors such as long-term contracts, sleep disturbances, social isolation, and prolonged separation from family further exacerbated these issues. In this context, shipboard working conditions and crew management systems must be restructured to support seafarers’ psychological well-being and resilience.
Throughout the seminar discussions, it was emphasized that seafarers’ mental health is not merely an individual issue, but one that requires collaborative efforts among shipping companies, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations. Such collaboration has the potential to foster systemic changes across the sector. The importance of strengthening organizations such as ITF, DAD-DER, and TÜRDEF to safeguard and enhance seafarers’ rights was also underscored.
The seminar’s final declaration highlighted a set of collective recommendations, including the integration of mental health and stress management courses into maritime education curricula, preparation of seafarers for multicultural working environments, prevention of stigmatization and exclusion onboard, and the inclusion of provisions in collective agreements that protect seafarers’ mental health and resilience. Moreover, the declaration advocated for improving access to psychological support services in the maritime industry.
Concrete proposals included the development of guidance booklets for seafarers, the organization of public awareness campaigns, and the enhancement of opportunities for physical activity and social interaction onboard. Among the forward-looking measures suggested were the establishment of a working group comprising academics and maritime professionals under ITF’s leadership, the creation of a comprehensive mental health guide for seafarers, and the development of independent services offering free psychological support through the cooperation of industry stakeholders. Additionally, it was agreed that specific policies must be developed to reduce workplace pressure, violence, and threats, and that legal regulations should be introduced to improve seafarers’ working and living conditions.
In conclusion, the mental health and well-being of seafarers must be recognized as a critical issue that affects not only individuals but the future of the entire maritime sector. Maritime companies, academic circles, and civil society organizations must assume greater responsibility and act collectively to ensure safer and healthier working conditions for seafarers. This declaration calls on all stakeholders in the maritime industry to take concrete steps toward improving the welfare of maritime workers.
