Occupational Stress and Psychological Well-Being among Seafarers
Abstract: Seafaring is a demanding occupation characterized by prolonged periods away from home, long and irregular working hours, physical workload, fatigue, confined living conditions, limited shore leave, and reduced social interaction. These conditions can negatively affect the mental and physical health of seafarers and increase their vulnerability to psychological difficulties. The present study aimed to examine the mental health challenges experienced by seafarers and to identify individual, occupational, and environmental factors associated with their psychological well-being. A quantitative, cross-sectional approach was used to examine occupational stress and psychological well-being among seafarers. Information was collected using demographic details and standardized psychological measures. The study focused on occupational stress, psychological well-being, fatigue, sleep difficulties, social isolation, and other factors influencing seafarers' mental health. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including correlation, t-test, and one-way ANOVA, were considered for analysis. The findings further indicate that long working hours, poor sleep, extended periods at sea, workload, limited shore leave, separation from family, poor organizational support, communication difficulties, and challenging physical environments contribute to psychological stress. Individual factors such as age, seafaring experience, physical health, BMI, and chronic health conditions were also associated with mental health outcomes. In contrast, resilience, psychological capital, social support, teamwork, supportive leadership, and appropriate organizational resources were identified as protective factors. The study concludes that seafarers' mental health is influenced by the interaction of individual and occupational factors. Mental health promotion in the maritime industry should therefore include stress management, resilience training, adequate work-rest schedules, physical health promotion, supportive leadership, improved communication, and accessible psychological services. Addressing these factors may contribute to improved psychological well-being, work performance, safety, and overall quality of life among seafarers.
Keywords: Seafarers, Mental Health, Occupational Stress, Psychological Well-Being, Depression, Anxiety, Burnout, Fatigue, Resilience, Maritime Industry
How to Cite?: Bhanu Makala Damodharam, "Occupational Stress and Psychological Well-Being among Seafarers", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 596-607, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR261009072516, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR261009072516