Suicide at sea: navigating in restricted visibility

Abstract

Seafarers and fishers remain largely invisible despite being vital to world trade and food security. Their working and living conditions are obscured by data scarcity and lack of attention, hindering inter alia research on mental health and suicide at sea. To effectively assess these issues, it is crucial to overcome data limitations. In this paper, we develop a maritime suicide risk factors matrix organized into five meta-categories (i.e., the experience of being at sea, the distinct nature of maritime society, health systems, onboard community dynamics, and the impact of closed and distant relationships) to guide the analysis. This tool enables a systematic exploration of the complex interplay between sea workers and their natural and social environments. The paper shows that their work contexts profoundly shape seafarers’ and fishers’ lives. Entrapped within an indifferent maritime sector, the conditions at sea can significantly impact their mental health and increase the risk of suicide. This research underscores the importance of incorporating a broad spectrum of literature to thoroughly understand these issues. In short, the systemic analysis delves into the overlooked yet essential roles these workers play. The paper concludes with brief recommendations.