Triton 2025 - Magazine - Page 10
PANEL DISCUSSION
Pletschke said: “My experiences are as much of an
opportunity as a threat. Because I know what it’s like being
overwhelmed, I know what to look for in my crew. My own
challenges are almost like a superpower.
Social isolation, long voyages, fatigue and stress, separation
from family and friends, lack of shore leave, danger,
enforced celibacy, living and working in the same space – all
of these factors affect seafarer wellness.
“Seafarers look to me for strength and capability. They
want to know that I am not perfect; gone are the days when
the captain has to be perfect. I try to be assertive, caring,
vulnerable.
Leadership is key, Grainge said. “Seafaring is a tough job
but people will do tough jobs. People won’t refuse to do it as
long as they are properly led, feel well supported and know
that if something goes wrong, you will stand by them.”
People should feel safe to say ‘I am having an off day’.
I believe we can change our approach to mental health.
Seafarers need strong and psychologically safe ships where
ultimately it’s OK to not be OK. How do we as maritime
leaders enable that to happen?”
Of昀椀cers can be well versed in the intricacies of propelling
and navigating a vessel, but how well prepared are they in
the leadership role?
Practical and emotional support
From ISWAN’s point of view, “If you wanted someone to
promote seafaring as a career, don’t come to us – we see
the very worst examples of abandonment, suicide, etc.,” said
Simon Grainge. “But we also realise that shipping is a very
broad spectrum and not everything is as negative as that. We
see a vast difference between some companies and others.”
ISWAN is probably best known for its ‘SeafarerHelp’ helpline,
which has been offering emotional, wellbeing and practical
support to seafarers and their families for two decades.
During 2024 the helpline received 400 new contacts every
month, leading to many follow-up calls. The association also
runs the YachtCrewHelp and Seafarer Assistance helplines,
operated by ISWAN on behalf of companies and vessel
owners. Callers can range from those with very simple
worries to those with very complex problems and those
feeling suicidal.
10 / Triton 2025
Smoking and alcohol use is down among seafarers, and
they are eating better, less fried food – that’s positive,
Grainge said, but research shows that seafarers are getting
less sleep, are more anxious and stressed, and would hide
health problems for fear of losing their jobs.
