Mental health — the first 72 hours onboard
The first 72 hours of a new contract are the highest-risk window for mental-health crisis — especially for returning seafarers or long-contract survivors.
Depression + anxiety onset within the first 72 hours of a new contract is a recognised pattern — driven by contract-length dread, isolation from family, and adaptation to a new crew. Recognising the pattern early is critical; support networks (call home + connect with fellow officers) are the strongest protective factor. Seafarers International Union crisis lines + ISWAN SeafarerHelp (24/7 +44 20 7323 2300) exist specifically for this.
Practical steps
- Call home within the first 24 hours — connection dampens the isolation spike.
- Talk to another officer on the first day — 'I'm finding it tough' is not a career-ending conversation.
- Structure the first week: regular sleep, regular meals, off-watch exercise.
- ISWAN SeafarerHelp (24/7 +44 20 7323 2300) is a free confidential call; use it if the pattern gets worse.
- Avoid alcohol during acclimatisation — it makes the mood dip worse.
When to escalate
- Persistent low mood beyond 5 days — talk to the Master + request TMAS mental-health consultation.
- Any suicidal thoughts or self-harm — immediate MEDEVAC criteria; do not delay.
- Post-traumatic reactions to recent incidents (piracy, casualty, family emergency) — specialist care essential.
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