Shipping companies should take a mental health emergency as seriously as a physical one. A seafarer experiencing a mental health crisis might feel no longer able to cope. This is particularly true in the current pandemic. This document has tools to help shipping companies, Masters and seafarers handle such a situation and to spot suicidal behaviour.

If a mental health crisis occurs, the seafarer should seek immediate expert assessment and advice for the best course of action from a mental health professional. If under the care of a mental health provider, the seafarer should contact the specific advisor for advice.