One of the key factors impacting seafarer wellbeing is their relationship with their family. This stems not only from missing the daily contact, but additionally from the strain of navigating a long-distance relationship over extended periods of time.

Recognising that a strong connection to family is one of the most significant contributors to a seafarer’s mental and emotional health, The Swedish Club last year created a children’s story book that could help bridge the gap between absent parent and child.

Today, The Swedish Club is proud to launch its companion publication, ‘Our Family and the Sea: A Check Your Pulse Wellbeing Guide for Seafarers and Their Loved Ones’. This family guide, developed in collaboration with Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), offers valuable insights into the realities of life at sea while, perhaps even more beneficial, providing practical advice on nurturing good relationships between ship and shore. From managing the stress of separation to handling communication challenges with empathy, the guide gives readers the tools to build stronger and more resilient family bonds.

Maintaining strong parental relationships is also a major focus of the book, with the emotional needs of children at different stages of development explored in each Chapter, from toddler up to older teenagers. The guide takes the reader through the challenges created through embarkation, via the period of absence to the emotional highs and lows of reunion when the seafarer returns.

Lorraine Hager, Loss Prevention & Marketing Advisor at The Swedish Club, said: “We believe that supporting a seafarer means supporting their whole family, not just in words, but through meaningful, hands-on resources and relevant guidance. When families feel informed, included, and equipped, every member feels seen and heard. These strong connections offer seafarers peace of mind while at sea, which is essential to their overall wellbeing.”

“Check Your Pulse emerged from our desire to address the human factors behind seafarer health and wellbeing,” she continued. “When seafarers feel supported, heard, and valued, vessels become not only safer and more efficient, but also places where people thrive — both at sea and in everyday life.”

‘Our Family and the Sea: A Check Your Pulse Wellbeing Guide for Seafarers and Their Loved Ones’ is available now as part of the Club’s ongoing commitment to seafarer welfare and safety at sea.