Affiliation:
1. Seafarers International Research Centre
2. University of the Philippines Visayas
Abstract
This paper examines the mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) interventions provided to Filipino international merchant seafarers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the significant labor participation in seafaring of Filipinos, examining the MHPSS provided to them during a crisis is necessary because these services remain unexplored. Using an online survey, this paper raises two questions: (1) what MHPSS was provided to Filipino seafarers during the pandemic and (2) how did the seafarers perceive the importance of MHPSS interventions? Twenty-two MHPSS interventions are presented and analyzed, and policy recommendations for various Philippine-based stakeholders are offered.
Funder
Lloyd’s Register Foundation