Shipping leaders urged to treat seafarer health as safety-critical on Day of the Seafarer 2026

Friday, 26 June 2026 15:18 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

OneCare Group, a leading health and wellness platform, has urged shipping leaders to acknowledge the severe pressures on modern seafarers and to treat health and wellbeing as a safety-critical matter, as the industry observes the Day of the Seafarer this week.

The call was reported by Hellenic Shipping News on 2026-06-23.

According to the platform, seafarers are navigating a world of uncertainty and instability, from the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Strait of Hormuz to extended periods away from home and increasing operational demands. They are tasked with keeping global supply chains functioning while transiting high-risk regions, adapting to rapidly changing security situations, and enduring the psychological strain of constant pressure.

OneCare Group CEO Marinos Kokkinis commented that over the past year, seafarers have been on the front line of major geopolitical challenges. He noted that while global events dominate headlines, the men and women at sea manage the operational realities and personal consequences, continuing to deliver under increasingly difficult circumstances. Kokkinis emphasised that resilience alone is insufficient and that the industry has a responsibility to support, protect, and care for seafarers both at sea and ashore.

The pressures of modern seafaring can significantly impact mental wellbeing, particularly during periods of heightened uncertainty or when operating in high-risk areas. Through its member companies—Mental Health Support Solutions, OneLearn Global, WellAtSea, and Marine Medical Solutions—OneCare Group advocates for continued investment in the people behind global trade, recognising both the value they deliver and the risks they carry.

Mental Health Support Solutions Managing Director Mariana Charalambous, stated that discussions about risk at sea often focus on physical safety, but the psychological impact of prolonged stress, uncertainty, and isolation can be equally significant. She stressed that seafarers in challenging environments need access to professional, confidential mental health support tailored to life at sea. WellAtSea Managing Director Gisa Paredes explained that the maritime industry depends on people, and people perform best when they feel supported, valued, and connected. She noted that risks seafarers face are not only operational but can also affect motivation, wellbeing, and quality of life. Paredes added that creating opportunities for healthy activities, positive routines, and connection, along with leaders who demonstrate this culture, is essential for crew welfare.

Marine Medical Solutions CEO and Founder Dr. Jens Tulsner said that immediate access to medical supplies and equipment is crucial for crew health. He pointed out that seafarers work in environments where immediate healthcare is unavailable, and this challenge grows in high-risk areas. Tulsner emphasised the industry’s responsibility to ensure access to expert medical advice, telemedical support, and effective healthcare pathways whenever and wherever needed.

(Source: https://www.indexbox.io/blog/onecare-group-urges-shipping-leaders-to-treat-seafarer-health-as-safety-critical-on-day-of-the-seafarer-2026/)