World Mental Health Day: Navigating News Overload – Protecting Mental Health in a Globalised World
In today’s hyper-connected world, seafarers and shoreside staff alike are exposed to a relentless stream of global news. From geopolitical unrest to climate emergencies, the headlines rarely pause, and neither does our access to them. For many in the maritime community, this constant exposure can lead to a creeping sense of overwhelm, affecting not only emotional wellbeing but also operational focus and decision-making.
Why It Feels Like Too Much
The maritime industry operates across borders, cultures, and time zones. This global perspective means our people are often more attuned to world events than most. But with smartphones and social media delivering round-the-clock updates, staying informed can quickly tip into doomscrolling, especially during off-watch hours or long transits. The result? Heightened anxiety, emotional fatigue, and a sense of helplessness.
Recognising the Signs of Overwhelm
Chronic stress doesn’t always announce itself loudly. It builds gradually, showing up as:
- Physical symptoms: fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, disrupted sleep.
- Mental strain: difficulty concentrating, low motivation, memory lapses.
- Emotional shifts: irritability, sadness, numbness, or feeling “stuck”.
These reactions are natural human responses to an increasingly unpredictable world. Acknowledging them is the first step towards resilience.
Taking Back Control
While we can’t control global events, we can manage how we engage with them. Here are some practical ways to protect your mental health:
- Set boundaries with news: Limit how often you check updates and avoid news before bed.
- Ground yourself: Use mindfulness, calming visuals like horizon views, or breathing exercises to reset.
- Create phone-free zones: Designate areas or times when your device stays silent.
- Focus on what you can control: Small, positive actions can help shift feelings from helplessness to purpose.
- Prioritise rest: Recovery isn’t indulgent, it’s essential, especially for shift workers.
- Talk it out: Connect with peers, loved ones, or professional support networks.
For further guidance, contact West’s Loss Prevention department.
How Sailors’ Society Can Help
At Sailors’ Society, we understand that in a world where global crises and constant news updates can feel inescapable, it’s no surprise that many seafarers and shoreside staff are feeling mentally and emotionally drained.
We’ve been alongside seafarers and their families for more than 200 years, constantly adapting to their changing needs. Through our long-standing partnership with West, Sailors’ Society is proud to offer targeted mental health support that addresses the unique challenges of life at sea – especially during times of global uncertainty.
Our services help you and your family recognise signs of stress and understand when you may be becoming overwhelmed. Through our MyWellness app, we provide simple, practical steps to help build personal resilience and improve mental health.
Our Peer-to-Peer Support Groups offer confidential, safe spaces where you can unburden and share your experiences with people in the same boat, even if not on the same vessel. And if the weight of world events ever feels too heavy, you don’t have to carry it alone – our 24/7 helpline means there is always someone there, ready to listen and help.
All of these initiatives are designed to help you reset, refocus, and reconnect.
Sailors’ Society is here for you 24/7. Visit www.sailors-society.org/seafarers to find out how we can help.