Mapping Mental Health of Seafarers Post-COVID-19: A Gaussian Graphical Model of Depression, Anxiety, and Maritime Working Conditions.

Abstract

This cross-sectional study examines the levels of depression and anxiety experienced by seafarers working in countries bordering the Black Sea in the post-COVID-19 period; it also evaluates the effects of these mental conditions on socio-demographic variables, problems encountered in ship and port environments during the pandemic, and career planning. Analyzes were conducted using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scales. Additionally, a Gaussian Graphical Model (GGM) was used to analyze the interaction between psychological outcomes and working conditions and career planning. Findings reveal that, compared to pre-pandemic levels, depression and anxiety levels remain high. According to the results, 38.8% of participants show signs of depression, and 56.7% exhibit symptoms of anxiety. Anxiety levels are higher among officers and those with less maritime experience. GGM analysis shows that while the direct effects of COVID-19 have diminished, interactions between shipboard and port-related challenges persist. Strong relationships were observed between stressful working conditions on board, excessive alcohol consumption, and pressure from superiors. Port-related issues such as feeling isolated at port and pressure from port authorities emerged as key bridging variables in the network. Ship-related issues have a greater impact on seafarers' well-being in the working conditions compared to port-related issues; however, port-related issues should also be addressed through appropriate interventions. A weak association was also found between the intention to discontinue working on board and the level of anxiety. Based on these findings, it is recommended to systematically address workplace tension due to work pressure, implement onboard psychological monitoring, provide targeted support for junior officers, integrate mental health training in maritime academies, improve leadership and workload balance, and include psychosocial indicators in post-contract evaluations.