mental health, crew, UK chamber of shipping, suicide, bullying Home Publications Articles Mental Health and the Seafarer Mental Health and the Seafarer Articles Stephanie Hayward Published: February 11, 2019 Contact author Download article pdf Mental health issues are commented on frequently in the press, and the UK Office of National Statistics records that suicide is the leading cause of death in England in adults below the age of 50. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol and drug abuse can affect anyone, and can impact on work performance. Seafarers can be particularly susceptible to mental health issues. They are often far from home, with little contact with family and friends. There may be cultural differences between the seafarer and their co-workers which make it more difficult for them to build relationships, therefore making the seafarer feel isolated. From time to time the Club receives claim notifications of psychotic episodes, attempted suicides and, tragically, suicides of crew members. In many of these situations it is apparent that at no time prior to the specific event did the seafarer report, or receive counselling or treatment for, any mental health concerns. There are many causes of these events, including family issues and bullying by other seafarers. Whilst we are all encouraged to talk about mental health, it seems that it is still a taboo subject amongst seafarers and as a result they are missing out on vital support and treatment at the early stages of their illness. So what should shipowners be doing? Pre-medical Employment Examination (PEME) The first step is to ensure you have a good quality PEME in place and to ensure the doctor is looking out for signs of mental illness. Please see the Clubs circular on Circular B.479 of December 2008  and our  Wellness at Sea document. Preventing bullying Seafarers who are bullied are likely to suffer stress. The Chamber of Shippin