- Ukrainian Crew First Affected, Russian Cases Now Rising.
- Stress Triggers Acute Psychological Symptoms at Sea.
- Psychotic Episodes Linked to Stress, Not Chronic Illness.
The ongoing war is taking a heavy emotional and psychological toll on seafarers from all backgrounds and ranks. Crews are feeling the pressure, often far away from home and dealing with intense emotional strain, reports SMI.
Ukrainian Seafarers Initially Most Affected
At the beginning of the conflict, it was primarily Ukrainian crew members who made up the majority of mental health referrals to MHSS, which is part of OneCare Group. They were facing common issues like acute stress, grief, trouble sleeping, and difficulty concentrating.
Growing Mental Health Issues Among Russian Seafarers
Lately, MHSS has seen a significant rise in stress-related cases among Russian seafarers, with reports of emotional instability, interpersonal conflicts, and psychological symptoms arising from ongoing moral pressure.
Psychotic Episodes Linked to Stress, Not Chronic Illness
Clinical Psychologist Alexander Dimitrevich has pointed out that there have been cases, mostly among Ukrainians, of psychotic episodes triggered by stress and depression. “There are emotional burdens these seafarers carry that are not always immediately visible,” says Alexander. “Some feel cut off from the world, some struggle with changes in how they are perceived due to their nationality, and many are still processing personal loss and uncertainty about the future. These pressures accumulate and can impair emotional functioning.”
In the last six months, MHSS handled 12 cases involving Russian seafarers and 46 cases from Ukrainian crew. “It is extremely rare for schizophrenia to first develop after the age of 35 without any prior symptoms,” he notes. “What we’re seeing are stress-induced, time-limited reactions that improve significantly with the right psychological support.”
Tensions Onboard and Emotional Struggles
When chatting with Ukrainian seafarers, a staggering 95% admitted that working alongside Russian colleagues would be an emotional challenge for them, even though they’re committed to keeping things professional. Many are still grappling with feelings of grief and issues surrounding their national identity.
One seafarer found themselves in a tough spot: visiting a seriously ill relative could mean saying goodbye to their family abroad for good, which underscores the emotional turmoil many are experiencing.
Early Support Aids Recovery
In one instance of secondary grief, a seafarer decided to leave their ship. After six weeks of counselling, they were able to return to work, proving just how crucial early psychological support can be.
MHSS Urges Vigilance and Support
With the conflict showing no signs of resolution, MHSS is urging those in the maritime industry to recognise signs of psychological distress early on and to ensure that support is accessible without any stigma attached.
“These are stress-induced, time-limited reactions that improve significantly with the right psychological support,” said Alexander Dimitrevich
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: SMI
