Mental health in ports: Why it’s vital to let port workers have their say

In an industry where physical safety is often front and centre, the mental well-being of port workers sometimes goes under the radar. Yet, in the challenging environments port workers operate in, mental health support is essential.

With the annual mental health in ports campaign set to run this coming March, PSS continues to advocate for open conversations about mental health. At the heart of the campaign is the belief that understanding how people feel is crucial for supporting the workforce effectively.

As part of this initiative, PSS conducts a ports happiness survey to give port workers a chance to share their experiences and concerns in a safe and confidential way. We ask that you not only complete the survey, but that you forward it out to your teams and encourage them to take they time to complete it to. The feedback we receive is anonymised and the results will be presented back to members to help them understand the unique pressures faced by port workers.
Why mental health matters

Each year, the four nations publish data on the mental well-being of their populations, with the most recent figures revealing some concerning trends.

In Scotland, “one in ten adults (10%) reported feeling lonely ‘most’ or ‘all of the time,’ with adults aged 16-24 (19%) and those in the most deprived areas (14%) being the most likely to report such feelings in the past week.”

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland reported that “one in five (20%) people reported feeling lonely always or often, which represents 380,000 people.” In response to the growing concerns around mental well-being, Northern Ireland launched a 10-year mental health strategy (2021-2031), focusing on mental health promotion, early intervention, prevention, and family-centred recovery.

The National Survey for Wales highlighted a decrease in the nation’s mental well-being since 2016, with 32% of respondents reporting low well-being, and 13% reporting feelings of loneliness in the 2022-23 survey.

In England, NHS figures show that “one in four (25%) adults experiences at least one diagnosable mental health problem each year,” noting that mental health issues affect individuals across all walks of life and at any stage of life. Mental health concerns are now the leading cause of disability in the UK.

Why mental health matters in ports

Ports are high-pressure environments that operate around the clock, exposing workers to heavy machinery, demanding schedules, and physically strenuous tasks. These factors can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout if not properly addressed. In addition, the isolated nature of certain roles within ports can contribute to feelings of loneliness or anxiety. Just as safety protocols are crucial for reducing the risk of physical injuries, mental health support is essential for maintaining a healthy, engaged, and resilient workforce.

For port workers, the risk of poor mental health may be amplified due to the specific demands and conditions of their jobs. Through our annual campaigns, PSS emphasises the message that mental health support is as important as any other safety measure. PSS’s approach is to create a culture of openness, where workers feel comfortable speaking up about their mental well-being.

The importance of talking

Talking openly about mental health is a powerful step towards breaking down stigma. For many workers, the idea of expressing vulnerability may feel challenging or out of character. Yet, when given the opportunity to share their thoughts in a safe environment, many find relief in knowing they are not alone. PSS’s ports happiness survey provides a valuable outlet for workers to voice how they feel and discuss challenges. The data collected also helps shape the mental health support systems that ports put in place, ensuring that they’re relevant to real needs.

Feedback from previous surveys has shown that workers appreciate being able to participate in these conversations. The survey results allow management teams to better understand the mental health landscape within their organisations and take proactive steps to address concerns. Whether it’s through providing mental health first-aiders on site, offering confidential counselling, or simply encouraging open dialogue, each step is a building block towards a healthier workplace.

Supporting mental health is everyone’s responsibility

Mental health in ports isn’t just an individual’s concern, it’s a collective responsibility. Employers, managers, and colleagues all play a role in fostering an environment where open conversations are encouraged, and support is readily available. By continuing to let port workers have their say, PSS not only addresses the immediate needs of the workforce but also helps to build a culture of care that will benefit future generations of port workers.

As the March campaign approaches, let’s remember the importance of listening to our port workers and prioritising their mental well-being. Together, we can make ports healthier, safer, and more supportive places to work.

Have your say by completing the 2025 ports happiness survey.

Keep up to date with the 2025 mental health in ports campaign by checking the news stories on the PSS website and following @Port Skills and Safety on LinkedIn.