Times have been challenging for all of us since last year. As the pandemic dragged on, so did the uncertainty. We were met with challenges, and more challenges. Just as we started to see some light, we were hit by a Covid-19 outbreak that affected two ships and claimed the lives of two colleagues.
As we all process this collective loss, let us be reminded that we are in this together. The management has launched an in-depth investigation in its commitment to preventing this from happening again. Leaders and colleagues ashore are reviewing and updating policies and procedures, and offering all sorts of support. And you all have done an incredible job in handling everything that has been thrown at you. Now, all we ask is for you to take care of yourselves.
We are all dealing with a collective loss, but we also have each other. We’ll get through this, together.
Here are some of the tips previously shared by Professor Olav Kjellevold Olsen (University of Bergen):
- Think positive and remain hopeful.
Try to get away from negative thoughts and replace them with a mindset of appreciation about what you had, and what you have in life. If this becomes difficult, remember that bad times do not go on forever. Remind yourself that the situation will eventually change for the better.
- Try to find a sense of meaning in these struggles.
Without your efforts on board, the future of the company and the many families depending on the performance of the company would be in jeopardy. What you do and endure now matters to many!
- Do not worry too much about things that you cannot do anything about.
This only creates stress and bad sleep. Try to distract yourself from worries and find alternative things to think about — by playing games, reading, working out, planning a nice holiday, or having barbecue with colleagues.
- Help — or receive help — from colleagues.
If you deal with everything alone, you become vulnerable. On the other hand, you can endure and cope with anything if you are surrounded by people who care and support you. This requires that you pay attention to each other. It may come in terms of practical help, as encouragements or just being someone to talk to on a rough day. Ask for and receive support from others, and be willing to give to others if needed.
- Turn to long-established networks already built for distance.
Draw inspiration and strength from friends and family back home. Share your own feelings with the people closest to you. Be involved in the daily life of family and friends through routines of regular and frequent contact via social media and phone.
- Take care of your own mental health.
Have people on board that you can talk to — also about things that are difficult and hard — and try to get enough sleep. If you are mentally fit, you are also better with people around you.
- Look out for each other.
Be aware if any one on board starts to isolate and withdraw socially. If there are sudden changes for the worse – try to reestablish contact.
For the leaders on board:
- Look after your crew.
We are dealing with a collective loss, and it is natural for colleagues to be stressed about this. It is also natural for your crew to turn to you, so you it is your responsibility to find ways to reduce this stress.
- Rebuild structure.
In a stressful situation, structures falls apart; hence, it is very important to rebuild structure. Engage the crew in work, routines or special activities. Try to establish social arenas and make yourself available.
- Recognize that fear is natural.
Provide regular information, and be optimistic and positive. Also remember that fear is contagious. If you sense negative attitude among the crew, whether in a person or in a small group, validate the situation, then consider an educational way forward.
- Monitor the situation in terms of strain and atmosphere.
Do this by listening and talking to the crew daily. Motivate foremost by showing care, while still reminding that safety remains top priority. Encourage openness among the crew by cultivating the ship as a safe space where anyone can share anything without worrying about being judged.
- Isolation, monotony and negative attitude pose a dangerous combination.
Watch out for anyone who tends to isolate or express extreme negativity. Set up individual meetings with them and show that you care about their well-being. When talking to peers who are in distress, recognize that you may not manage to get him/her out of it. But it is important to show that you are available for them and that you understand.
- Say thank you.
Motivate your colleagues by showing that they are appreciated, and that what they do matter. Their efforts on board are not taken for granted.
- Look after yourself, too.
Remember that you are also human. You are not expected to be strong and happy all the time. Make sure that you have someone you can talk to at the end of a long day, be it a trusted colleague on board the same ship, someone you are close with ashore, or friends and family. You need support like everyone else.
And if you need a soundtrack to these days, here’s a suggestion:
