Combating depression in seafareres


Even though we don’t always like to talk about it, depression is a very real condition that can affect the way you live. It can have an impact on your work performance, your mental and physical health, and your relationships.

For seafarers, depression can be especially prevalent, due to the long periods at sea, loneliness, and separation from loved ones. The stigma associated with depression and other mental illnesses is finally fading away, and there is no shame in seeking help. There are a few things you can do to help combat depression on board when outside counseling and guidance are not available.

1. Recognize that it can be difficult to live, work and relax in the same space

Living in close quarters is difficult, no matter who is involved. When you live, work, and relax in that shared space, finding time for yourself can be a challenge. Tempers may flare, frustrations may arise, and small problems can seem like big ones. Take a moment to recognize that what you’re doing is hard; there’s no way around it. Cut yourself a break when you need it.

2. Find healthy outlets for your emotions

As emotions build among crew members on a ship, it’s easy to manifest these feelings in unhealthy ways. Although it can be cathartic, fighting, shouting, throwing objects, and losing your cool isn’t a manageable way to function. Neither is keeping your emotions bottled up inside, which can put a strain on your mental health.  Look for healthy outlets like writing down how you feel or channeling your emotions into exercise.

3. Seek out someone to talk to when you’re onshore

Many ports have resources for seafarers who need someone to talk to.  Seek refuge in these facilities, where you can talk to a minister, counselor, or even a fellow seafarer. At Port Everglades, we offer multi-faith ministry services that can lend an ear to your feelings.  You do not have to be religious to seek the help of ministry services, we counsel and support mariners of all different faiths and backgrounds. Talking out your emotions can be a healthy way of dealing with them, and can better prepare you for the next time you feel low while at sea.

4. Take every opportunity to communicate with friends and family

Time is a precious commodity, so use it well. Regular communication with the ones you love – and who love you – can help keep you in a positive frame of mind. When possible, schedule these conversations ahead of time so you have something to look forward to. Use whatever form of technology is available to you, from a phone call to a video chat or even a simple email. Even a brief conversation can have a lasting positive impact on your emotional state.  


Reposted From Seafarers' House at Port Everglades.org

Ship called at the port of Palermo

The ship called at the port of Palermo. Patrick being a die hard Catholic wanted to visit some old churches and I joined him. One of the churches we visited was the Cathedral of Palermo.

The stay in the port of Palermo was not long but a good one. As it was walking distance to most parts of the main city, every evening Patrick and I went out and enjoyed an Italian cuisine for dinner.


                                                                     Port of Palermo           


                                                                 Cathedral of Palermo

Near collision situation South of Messina Straits

The ship crossed the Suez Canal, and was on the way to Palermo. Just about a day before arrival in Palermo, the ship was approaching Messina Strait. The Strait of Messina is a narrow passage between the eastern tip of Sicily and the western tip of Calabria in the south of Italy. It was a clear day and I was the Officer in Charge of the navigational watch. The time was about 2pm. I saw another ship coming and as per the Radar it should pass around 1.5 n/miles on our Port side (Left side of our own ship).

When the vessel is in transit of this kind of narrow passages, the Captain usually visits the bridge and remains there. The Captain’s presence on the bridge does not relieve the Officer on Watch from his duties, unless he verbally informs the Officer that he is taking over the watch. Therefore, I continued with my work. Our ship was heading in a Northerly course and was around 7 N/ miles South of the strait. The ship ahead of ours was coming down. The distance between the two ships were approximately 5 N/miles. When the other ship got closer, as much as 2 N/miles, there was a sudden movement and the bow of our ship swung and almost head towards the other one. The Captain informed me that he was taking over. He immediately ordered the helm, "Hard over to Starboard” and increased the speed to Emergency Full Ahead. The other ship also altered course away from our ship, but the ships were very close to each other when they finally passed. And, definitely much less than 1 N/Mile. However, a dangerous, and a possible collision was averted due to the timely action by both ships. After so many years have passed I still remember this incident.

The reason for the sudden swinging of our ship could have been due to following:

 ‘The Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Straits are where the Seto Inland Sea meets the Kii Channel. These straits are amongst the three most dramatic in the world, standing alongside the Straits of Messina between Sicily and the Italian Peninsula, and the Seymour Narrows of Vancouver Island in Canada. The difference in height between tides here can reach up to 1.5m, with the currents moving at 15 to 20km/h. This generates whirlpools ranging up to 20m in diameter. You won't want to miss these wonders of nature - some of the largest in the world! The best time to see them is one and a half hours around the high or low tides. Prime viewing season is during tides in spring and autumn.’

The above is taken from a report about these unusual and dangerous situations at sea.

Have any of you encountered such situations? Please comment.




                                                                 Photo of a Whirlpool