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Updated: Jan 23, 2026

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Published on: February 10, 2020
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Potentially traumatic experiences of seafarers
Hans-Joachim Jensen1, Marcus Oldenburg2
11University of Applied Sciences, Flensburg, Germany.
Summary
Seafarers frequently experience severe mental stress from ship accidents, piracy, and stowaways, leading to psychological after-effects. Psychoeducation is recommended for coping with these extreme situations at sea.
Area of Science:
- Maritime Psychology
- Occupational Health
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Seafarers face unique occupational stressors in isolated maritime environments.
- Assessing the prevalence and psychological impact of severe mental stress on seafarers is crucial for their well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extent of seafarer exposure to severe mental stress situations.
- To identify the psychological effects resulting from traumatic onboard events.
Main Methods:
- Conducted interviews with 323 seafarers across 22 German ships regarding stressful events.
- Performed semi-standardized interviews with shipping companies and Seafarers' Missions to gather data on traumatic experiences and support services.
Main Results:
- 35.9% of seafarers reported experiencing shipwrecks/accidents, 17.0% piracy, and 39.0% stowaway incidents.
- Significant psychological after-effects, including intrusive thoughts and nightmares, were reported by over 75% of those affected by shipwrecks or piracy.
- Specific demographic groups, such as non-European seafarers and ratings, were disproportionately affected by stowaway threats.
Conclusions:
- Onboard deaths and serious injuries represent significant psychological stressors within the confined social system of a ship.
- Filipino seafarers, due to strong cultural and religious values, may require specific support, including priestly assistance.
- Psychoeducation is proposed as a preventive strategy to equip seafarers with coping mechanisms for extreme mental stress.
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