Scandinavian marine insurer Alandia Insurance has started a loss prevention project to provide education and training programmes in support of seafarer mental health.
It has teamed up with Norwegian safety company Bla Mediamentor to develop the package.
Alandia loss prevention executive Johanna Kull said mental health problems are on the increase and leading to even higher seafarer suicide rates.
She said the situation is nearing a “critical point”.
“In a situation where uncertainty is mounting and suicide numbers are steadily growing, we need to find adequate support mechanisms to curb the trend. No one should be left alone to tackle these problems. Luckily, tools are available for building resilience. There are many ways to gain and maintain mental health — together," Kull said.
Kull cited a survey by Yale University and the ITF Seafarers’ Trust involving 1,500 seafarers. Of those polled, 17% had suffered anxiety and 20% had contemplated suicide or self-harm in the two weeks preceding the study.
Kull said that the pandemic is adding to seafarers’ feelings of resignation and anxiety. The programme includes a toolbox with pre-made meetings for use in groups and an online training support for single users.
To date, such programmes have largely been provided by protection and indemnity insurers.
However, hull and machinery insurers, such as the Norwegian Hull Club, through its health insurance provider Marine Benefits and now Alandia have started to develop their own schemes.
