NEWS
MHiP – Staying connected
Campaigns |Published: Mar 27, 2025
Ports are bustling hubs of activity that connect nations and economies, but the work itself can often be isolating. Many port roles—whether working on remote docks, handling heavy machinery, or performing administrative tasks—can lead to a sense of separation from colleagues and community.
Fostering strong social connections in port environments is essential, not only for mental health but also for teamwork, safety, and overall productivity. Building a network of social support can help port workers feel more connected, valued, and resilient in the face of daily challenges.
Social support is one of the most powerful tools for improving mental health and well-being. Having strong relationships with colleagues creates a sense of belonging and provides a buffer against stress. In a port setting, where roles are diverse and the work can be demanding and sometimes solitary, social support can mitigate feelings of isolation, enhance team cohesion, and create a more positive work culture. When workers feel connected, they are more engaged, focused, and motivated, which benefits the entire port operation.
Challenges to building social connections in ports
Physical separation and remote work areas
Ports are large, sprawling environments, with many workers assigned to specific zones, docks, or vessels. This separation can make it difficult for team members to connect with each other, especially when some are stationed in remote or isolated areas with limited interaction throughout the day.
Irregular and long hours
The 24/7 nature of port operations often requires irregular shifts, including night work, which can disrupt workers’ personal lives and limit their social interactions with colleagues. Irregular hours can also make it difficult for workers to participate in team activities or connect with others outside their immediate roles.
High-pressure and fast-paced environment
Ports operate under tight deadlines and high expectations, leaving limited time for casual interaction or team bonding. In fast-paced roles, workers may feel pressure to stay focused on tasks, potentially leading to a more isolated experience.
Strategies for building social support in port environments
To strengthen social connections, it’s important to create opportunities for workers to interact meaningfully, whether on-site or through virtual means. Here are a few ways ports can foster a supportive, connected environment:
Establish regular check-ins and team meetings
Regular check-ins and team meetings provide opportunities for workers to connect, share updates, and support each other. Whether through quick daily meetings or weekly catch-ups, these interactions can create a consistent structure for communication. Including informal check-ins, where workers can chat about non-work-related topics can help strengthen personal bonds as well.
Create shared spaces for interaction
Providing communal areas where workers can take breaks together, eat meals, or unwind creates natural opportunities for socialising. Break rooms, outdoor picnic areas, and coffee stations are simple ways to facilitate casual connections. Encouraging workers to step away from their duties during breaks and enjoy these spaces can contribute to a sense of camaraderie.
Encourage peer support programs
Peer support programmes allow workers to provide mutual support, especially for those in similar roles or facing similar challenges. These programmes can take the form of mentorships, where experienced workers help newer colleagues settle in, or buddy systems that provide emotional and professional support. Peer support not only builds friendships but also enhances teamwork by creating a culture of shared responsibility and care.
Organise social events and team-building activities
Social events and team-building activities are excellent ways to bring together workers who might not interact otherwise. Ports can organise events such as BBQs, team-building workshops, or recreational outings that allow workers to relax, connect, and build friendships in a low-pressure environment. For those working night shifts or irregular hours, consider scheduling multiple sessions to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Leverage digital tools for connection
For workers spread across large port areas, digital tools such as messaging apps or internal social networks can help them stay connected. Ports can set up group chats, virtual notice boards, or forums where employees can share updates, celebrate milestones, and check in with one another. These tools are especially useful for connecting workers who are not physically close but can benefit from social interaction.
Supporting a culture of connection
Building social support in ports requires more than organising activities—it involves creating a culture where connection is valued and encouraged. Leaders play a critical role by setting the example, openly discussing the importance of social support, and encouraging teamwork. Managers can also acknowledge individual contributions, recognise team achievements, and foster a positive work environment where everyone feels valued.
The benefits of a connected workforce
Workers who feel connected are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and resilient in their roles. Social support helps alleviate stress, increases job satisfaction, and builds a stronger sense of loyalty to the organisation. Additionally, teams that have strong social bonds often work more effectively, with improved communication and collaboration leading to safer and more efficient port operations.
In the busy and often demanding world of ports, fostering social connections can have a profound impact on both mental health and operational success. By prioritising social support and creating opportunities for workers to connect, ports can build a resilient, collaborative, and high-performing workforce. Staying connected, even in a large, fast-paced environment, enables workers to thrive both personally and professionally, ensuring that ports remain strong, supportive communities for everyone involved.
Staying connected does not necessarily mean having to be more connected with your immediate team, there are a number of external groups that may also be of benefit to you, for instance, PSS holds regular meetings for groups of skills or safety workers and there is a Women in Ports group that is open for all to join via LinkedIn.
What are your tips for staying connected to support you mental health and well-being? Continue the conversation on our LinkedIn page and use the tag MHiP2025.