![International Bulk Journal](https://www.ibj-online.com/images/international-bulk-journal.png)
![Menu](https://www.ibj-online.com/images/showmobnav-bg.png)
(Posted on 22/02/24)
VIKAND, the global leader in maritime healthcare, is providing V.Ships Greece with officer training programmes designed to improve mental health and wellbeing onboard, and to reduce incidences of self-harm and suicide at sea.
The training modules aim to increase the officers’ knowledge and understanding of mental health issues at sea, including how to recognize relevant signs and symptoms and how to provide initial support to colleagues in need. They also train officers to recognize various factors that can contribute to suicide and self-harm at sea, and how to approach and communicate with a colleague who may be at risk. These programmes have been developed and are delivered by a licensed psychologist with experience in the challenges of maritime life.
“We wanted to provide our officers with structured training from a recognized maritime healthcare provider, so we chose VIKAND,” said Zafeiris Syrras, General Manager of V.Ships Greece. “The team at VIKAND is full of experienced medical professionals, all of whom have served on board, so they can empathize with our seafarers.”
At present, there is no maritime industry standard for mental health training, so VIKAND proactively developed structured learning programmes that satisfy RightShip guidelines and comply with Inspection Ship Questionnaire (RISQ) 3.0.
“Our aim with this course is to empower officers with the skills and knowledge to recognize and respond to mental health crises,” said Ronald Spithout, Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND. “We felt it was important to create a programme that would reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and address the very delicate subjects of suicide and self-harm.”
"Furthermore, it was important that we could work with such a trusted partner as Navarino who are very well in tune with the dynamics of the Greek shipping market from a technology and local commercial support perspective."
Reducing incidences of self-harm and suicide, as well as increasing knowledge and understanding of mental health issues at sea, are critical near-term goals. VIKAND’s broader mission is to support the long-term health of the maritime industry through programmes and services that enhance seafarer safety, resilience, happiness and productivity.
INTERCARGO, the association of dry bulk shipping companies, has released the following statement:&ldquo... Read more
ITOCHU Corporation, ClassNK, Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (... Read more
The Women's International Shipping & Trading Association UK (WISTA UK) marked its 50th anniversary... Read more
Accidents onboard ships are not decreasing, according to latest accident statistics submitted to the... Read more
Solutions must be in place to help ship owners with navigating the complex challenges of complying with... Read more
Diversity and nurturing talent is high on the agenda for BCS Group – Boers Crew Services as it... Read more
With discussions regarding the IMO’s (International Maritime Organization) Carbon Intensity Indicator... Read more
The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), the professional body for the commercial shipping industry... Read more
Columbia Group and Crowley have signed a strategic cooperation agreement that broadens both companies... Read more
The 2024 edition of The Future of Maritime Safety Report from Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, reveals... Read more