Over-reliance on social media and digesting toxic content could end up spilling into real life behaviour onboard as users struggle to balance reality and online worlds, industry experts told delegates at the inaugural Mental Health Support Solutions  global conference.

The demands on seafarers’ mental health were brought into clear focus with the staging of the first world conference, held by MHSS member of the OneCare Group, in Manila, Philippines.

The conference, titled Voices and Insights: Supporting the Mental Health of Seafarers, was dedicated to exploring practical strategies towards supporting seafarers both at sea and when they return home.

The event attracted some of the leading experts in the field as well as many involved in crew manning, maritime education plus seafaring cadets themselves, many of which are from the Philippines.

Panellists included experienced marine engineer Clifford Ituralba, former shipmaster Captain Efren G Bumatay, Dr Carolina Uno-Rayco, National Executive Director of the Philippine Mental Health Association, Gisa Paredes, Managing Director of WellAtSea, maritime educator Ace Gonzales, and Scalabrinian missionary Fr Paulo Prigol.

Mr Ituralba warned delegates on the reliance many seafarers have on social media and online news, and the dangers taking in toxic content from the internet and the risk of that spilling out into actual behaviour. He also spoke about effective relaxation techniques and how to ‘switch off’ from issues once off duty, in spite of the added challenge of still effectively being in the workplace while at sea.

Each guest speaker gave their own insight into this complex and critical area for the industry. Karen Gail Ibañez, Clinical Operations Manager of MHSS office in Manila, talked about effective teamwork, leadership with empathy and the importance of integrating local values to the work of any team.

The importance of seeking help and going to others for help was also examined, with Ms Paredes stating how there is no dishonour in seeking therapy and counselling.

Mr Gonzales examined a subject that rarely gets a spotlight: the lack of adequate onboarding for young seafarers who are often plagued with self-doubt, insecurity and social exclusion.

Finally, Fr Pringol highlighted the importance of seafarers having a sense of belonging, a sense of belief and of having hope.

Ms Ibañez said: “We really wanted to get to the real issues seafarers face, especially ones based in the Philippines and to show them there is help and support available to them, both while they are at sea and also when they return to land.

“We know that being a seafarer is a very rewarding career, but it also causes great demands and upheaval to their personal and family lives. Social media presents a lot of challenges, and we need to be aware of the dangers that such a constant stream to unregulated content poses. It was great to shine a spotlight on these challenges and provide insight into how these can be managed.

“We want people with many years of experience to know they don’t have to bottle their feelings up, and those new to the industry that they are fully supported and know what to expect. This is key to ensuring we are attracting the right people to the industry and ensuring they enjoy lengthy careers while feeling appreciated and supported.”