Mental health provider, Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), member of OneCare Group (OCG), has taken its commitment to the welfare of seafarers one step further through extending its services to their loved ones.
Seafarers undoubtedly face numerous obstacles at sea that can negatively impact their mental health, such as long periods of isolation, limited connectivity and even bullying. Despite this, they are not the only ones who suffer. Their loved ones, parents, spouses and children also bear the difficult brunt of separation.
Acknowledging these challenges through direct contact and constant communication with seafarers, MHSS has now expanded its services in the Philippines.
Faye Egargo, psychologist at MHSS, shared her experience from 2023 involving a Chief Officer she had been supporting. He had expressed deep concern for his eight-year-old son, who had special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and had been struggling with feeling as though he did not fit in amongst his peers; there was a worry that he might consider self-harm.
Through play therapy, Ms. Egargo was able to evaluate and support the young boy, helping him to navigate his feelings.
“I maintain contact with both the seafarers that I work with as well as their families to see how they are doing,” Ms. Egargo said. “I was very pleased to learn that the young child is now taking up hobbies such as taekwondo and reading comics. He has progressed from a white belt to a yellow belt!”
She continues to build rapport with her clients, fostering lasting relationships as to ensure ongoing wellbeing and support where needed.
MHSS recognises the often-overlooked needs of children with SEND, as well as understanding the significant impact that family and children have on the wellbeing of crew members, particularly Filipino families where there is a large focus on family and safety.
Ms. Egargo said: “As someone with family members who are seafarers, including cousins, I have witnessed first-hand the struggles that they face and a significant gap in the support that they receive, which is what motivated me to help address these needs.”
MHSS is committed to providing accessible children’s therapy for seafarers and their families, ensuring they receive the support and care they deserve.
Whilst these services are currently only available in the Philippines, MHSS is planning on rolling this out internationally, where its team of mental health experts can work with people based on cultural psychology, revolutionising mental wellbeing support in maritime
