The lonely life

What Happened

On a 5-week reef trip, we noticed that one of our deckhands seemed unlike himself. We learned that his spouse was not coping well at home. We knew that to look after our mate we needed to cancel the trip and return home. This financially and emotionally impacted the entire crew and their families but keeping our mates safe is our first priority”.

The seafood industry can be an isolating workplace, especially when fishers are away for long periods. Support networks are key for families onshore, and fishers alike. Being able to recognise the signs and chat with your mates and family members when you notice that they might not seem themselves is a great place to start in making sure we are feeling okay and safe to be at work.

Tips and Tools

  • Workplaces should emphasise a workplace culture which promotes the importance of mental health. Workers should be trained to understand the signs and risk factors leading to poor mental health, and ways in which these can be alleviated, including stress management. Workers should be encouraged to look out for one another, and start a conversation with those who are showing signs of poor mental health. It is also important to understand that poor mental health and physical health are often intertwined, as well as understanding the impacts of trauma.

Signs of poor mental health include:

  • Distraction, frustration, and/or procrastination
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Avoiding people
  • Losing sleep
  • Excessive eating, sleeping, and/or drinking
  • Poor physical health
  • Constantly feeling sad, angry, or fearful
  • Tips for stress management:
  • Get enough sleep
  • Take regular breaks from work
  • Prepare healthy meals and snacks to eat when out at sea
  • Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine
  • Connect with others – friends, family and workmates
  • Take time for exercise and enjoyable hobbies

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