MHiP – Why it’s vital to think about your mental health

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.

At the heart of Mental Health in Ports week is the knowledge that understanding how people feel is crucial for supporting the workforce effectively.

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 reported feeling lonely ‘most’ or ‘all of the time,’ with adults aged 16-24 being among the groups most likely to report such feelings in the past week.”

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland reported that “one in five people reported feeling lonely always or often, which represents 380,000 people.”

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,” and mental health concerns have become 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 and therefore, creating a culture of openness, where workers feel comfortable speaking up about their mental well-being is vital.

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.

Whilst, supporting mental health is everyone’s responsibility, having colleagues specially trained as mental health first-aiders can be a valuable building block towards a healthier workplace.

During this week, all PSS members are encouraged to take a step back and think about their own mental well-being, and check in with their colleagues. Together, we can make ports healthier, safer, and more supportive places to work.

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