Positive psychology and well-being at sea

Abstract

In light of research indicating that mariners as a professional group are amongst those at the highest risk for stress and associated mental health conditions, researchers are calling for the psychological health of seafarers to be effectively investigated, measured, and addressed. It has been suggested that the shipping industry could benefit by availing of modern scientific psychology interventions. The application of positive psychology interventions and training to the maritime context has great potential in this regard. This chapter explores positive psychology as an approach to enhancing well-being at sea. The isolated, confined, and safety-critical environment of the ship exposes seafarers to a very particular assortment of stressors. However, this environment also offers unique opportunities to develop and apply positive psychology programmes in the maritime context. We highlight some of the interventions that have been used in other contexts and consider their application to the maritime sector. Robust research is required that shows the effects of such interventions on seafarers’ psychological well-being. Recommendations are made for future research relating to the use of online or computer-based positive psychology interventions and training, and research on maritime health at the systems level.