Review of crew resilience and mental health practices in the marine industry: Pathways to improvement

This study examines the critical importance of mental health and resilience within the marine industry, identifying the unique challenges faced by seafarers and evaluating the effectiveness of current practices. The primary objectives were to assess the landscape of mental health and resilience initiatives, understand their impact on seafarer well-being and operational safety, and provide strategic recommendations for industry improvement. Through a systematic review of literature, including academic journals, industry reports, and international guidelines, the study synthesized existing research on mental health challenges, resilience-building strategies, and the role of regulatory frameworks in the marine sector. Key findings reveal a growing awareness of mental health issues among seafarers, with advancements in telepsychology and digital interventions marking significant progress. However, gaps in access to services, cultural sensitivity of interventions, and uniformity in policy implementation persist as substantial barriers. The study highlights the positive correlation between comprehensive mental health support and enhanced crew performance, safety, and economic efficiency within the marine industry. Conclusively, the study underscores the necessity of prioritizing mental health and resilience through accessible, culturally appropriate interventions, and robust regulatory support. It calls for increased collaboration between maritime stakeholders to foster a culture of well-being and safety. Future research should focus on closing knowledge gaps, particularly regarding intervention effectiveness and the impact of cultural diversity on mental health outcomes, to drive the industry towards a more sustainable and mentally healthy future.