Onboard Mental Health Policy


CMM	Crew Management Manual (CMM) Onboard Mental Health Policy	Doc No.: CMM-6.20 Revision: 01 Date: 15 Oct 2024 Issued by: DPA Approved by: MD

1. APPLICATION

This document is applicable to the vessel.

2. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to promote and protect the mental well-being of seafarers and to provide guidance on how to address mental health issues while at sea.

3. POLICY STATEMENT

Our organization is committed to promoting and maintaining a healthy and supportive working environment for all seafarers. We recognize that seafarers face unique stressors and challenges while at sea, and we strive to create a culture that supports mental well-being, reduces stigma, and provides resources for seafarers who may be struggling with mental health issues.

4. DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this policy, mental health refers to a person’s overall psychological and emotional well-being, including their ability to manage stress, cope with life's challenges, and enjoy a fulfilling life.

5. SCOPE

This policy applies to all seafarers working on our ships, including crew members, officers, and other personnel.

6. OBJECTIVES

To establish a company-wide commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of all staff, shoreside and at sea.
To raise knowledge and awareness of mental health and psychological wellbeing across the company.
To promote positive mental health and address risks to mental health and wellbeing.
To build and maintain systems, structures, and processes which create optimal conditions in the environment and culture for staff to thrive.
To reduce stigma and remove barriers to disclosure and access to support for mental health and wellbeing.
To engage employees in active participation of initiatives to promote mental health and wellbeing.
To demonstrate a commitment to making reasonable adjustments, provide access to appropriate treatment and support, and assurance of fair treatment for those with mental health concerns.

7. CONFIDENTIALITY

All information related to a seafarer's mental health will be kept confidential in accordance with relevant privacy laws and regulations.

8. SUPPORT FOR SEAFARERS

Onboard counselling: The organization will provide access to professional counselling services onboard the ship to support seafarers’ mental well-being. Seafarers can find more information on these services by speaking with the Master.
Emergency handling: In the event of a mental health emergency, the organization will take all necessary steps to ensure the seafarer's safety, including emergency evacuation, if necessary.
Support upon Return: Seafarers who have taken time off for mental health reasons will be supported in their return to work, including through accommodations and phased return to work plans, if necessary.
Early warning signs: The company endeavours to train senior management onboard to identify early warning signs of mental health-related issues onboard and support the crew member.

9. RESPONSIBILITIES OF SENIOR OFFICERS ONBOARD

Foster a culture of openness and support for mental health onboard the ship.
Encourage seafarers to seek help and use available resources, such as onboard counselling services, as needed.
Support seafarers who may be struggling with mental health issues, including by making reasonable accommodations and implementing phased return to work plans, as necessary.
Ensure that all information related to a seafarer's mental health is kept confidential, in accordance with relevant privacy laws and regulations.

10. RESPONSIBILITIES OF SEAFARERS

Take care of their own mental well-being and seek help when needed, including using onboard counselling services and other available resources.
Respect the confidentiality of colleagues who may be struggling with mental health issues.
Report any health and safety concerns, including mental health concerns, to their supervisor or a designated health and safety representative.

11. IMPLEMENTATION AND REVIEW

The organization will review and update this policy as necessary to ensure it remains effective and in line with current best practices and applicable laws and regulations. The policy will be communicated to all seafarers and made available onboard the ship or through other appropriate communications channels.