“They called me mad, and I called them mad, and damn them, they outvoted me.”
―
Mental health is a real thing that every Merchant Mariner contends with from time to time. Whether it is the long hours, months away from home, transition to life ashore, or any number of other stresses life as a Merchant Mariner brings we must be aware of this and the consequences it may bring.
It must also be remembered it is not just one aspect that can trigger an issue. It could be many all combined, and on one day something seemingly insignificant can send us into a state we have never experienced before.
One of the most important things to remember is this is completely OK. There is nothing wrong in feeling lousy while you are at sea, or getting ready to go back. Additionally, there is nothing wrong with taking time to make sure you are ok.
Even Keel is in the early stages of a partnership with the online counseling service BetterHelp.com.
We also have “Sailor Stories,” where you can post some of the most difficult items you have dealt with, and see how many others have experienced something similar. This service is open to all Mariners and their families.