What are the warning signs?
We talk to Emma Kate Ross, from SEAS THE MIND, who is a trained mental health first aid instructor. She shares the warning signs and what you can do to help.
Join her on the 18th and 19th October for a 2-day course in Antibes, discussing all of the below and giving advice.
There is also the option for a
half day zoom, for an introduction to mental health awareness, on the 15th October.
Emotional Snapping: this can be starting fights, breaking down crying, being overwhelmed and unable to cope with daily tasks.
Everyone has their own stress signature. This will be unique to the individual based on their upbringing and family dynamic, but with all crew it will be a breaking point at which the façade drops and the person ‘snaps’.
Changes in behaviour or personality, sleeping patterns. drinking levels... Basically any deviation from the normal to an extreme would indicate that something is going on in their internal world that cannot be expressed or vocalised. They may not even understand it themselves.
However, in these situations, what is clear is that some internal pain is ‘leaking’ out in the above changes and should be addressed as quickly as possible to minimise the impact on the individual.
Responding to these changes and behaviours, no matter how awkward, is also important for all onboard.
Living together in close quarters means any issues affect everyone.
Try think of it in terms of physical health as we have a better understanding and a more comfortable relationship with that.
If a crew member starts limping on the side deck as you are bringing in provisions, you could ignore it and hope they get better before the next trip or crossing. Or you could address it, find out how they did it, and whether they need assistance to get better.
