- New guide helps families better understand and support loved ones at sea.
- Includes a free illustrated children’s book to help young ones cope with separation.
- Part of the growing “Check Your Pulse” wellbeing initiative for the maritime industry.
The Swedish Club has launched a new addition to its “Check Your Pulse” initiative: Our Family and the Sea, a thoughtfully crafted wellbeing guide created specifically for the families of seafarers. Designed in collaboration with Mental Health Support Solutions, this guide aims to strengthen the emotional ties between crew members and their loved ones by offering practical advice, tools, and emotional support.
Guide for the family of seafarers
Life at sea can be isolating—not just for the seafarers, but for the families they leave behind. Long periods of absence, time zone differences, and limited communication can put a strain on relationships and wellbeing. Recognizing this, the guide provides insights into the realities of seafaring life so that families can better understand what their loved ones are going through. It also includes strategies to improve communication, maintain emotional closeness, and offer reassurance during times of physical separation.
A standout feature of the initiative is its focus on children. Alongside the main guide, a companion storybook has been developed for young children aged 4 to 6. The illustrated tale follows two siblings, Angelo and Mutya, as they navigate the challenges of their father being away at sea. The book gently introduces themes of love, absence, and connection, helping children process emotions and stay bonded with their seafaring parent. Developed with the guidance of child psychologists, the storybook is a warm, creative tool to support emotional development and family resilience.
The launch of Our Family and the Sea comes on the heels of The Swedish Club’s Annual General Meeting, where seafarer wellbeing was emphasized as a central pillar of operational success. More than just a feel-good initiative, “Check Your Pulse” has grown into a holistic approach to risk management—recognizing that mental health, family support, and workplace safety are deeply interconnected.
Ultimately, this guide represents an important step toward a more compassionate and sustainable maritime culture. By equipping families with knowledge, emotional tools, and accessible resources, Our Family and the Sea helps bridge the gap between ship and shore—making sure no one feels left behind, no matter how far the voyage.
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Source: The Swedish Club
