This article is based on a real-life experience shared anonymously by a general steward with Shippys.org, a platform that gives voice to seafarers’ untold stories.
The steward recalled an incident where, upon reporting a genuine health concern to the 2nd Officer, he was mocked with an inappropriate comment linking his condition to masturbation. To his dismay, the Captain also joined in, rather than offering support. This experience highlights the toxic culture that still exists onboard some ships — where ridicule replaces empathy, and reporting a health issue is seen as a weakness.
While the identities of those involved have been kept confidential, this story sheds light on a broader issue many seafarers face and calls for a much-needed change in onboard attitude and leadership.
Life at sea is demanding, and physical as well as mental well-being is critical to a safe and efficient operation. Unfortunately, a troubling trend continues to persist onboard many vessels — the tendency to ignore or even mock someone who reports a health issue. This mindset is not only harmful but can also lead to serious consequences for the individual and the entire crew.
Not Every Issue Needs a Hospital Visit
It’s important to remember that not all medical issues require a hospital visit. Some can be effectively managed onboard with basic medical attention, rest, and monitoring. That’s why ships are equipped with a medical locker and basic first aid supplies. More importantly, every vessel has a designated medical officer — usually the 2nd Officer — who acts as the first responder for health concerns.
But here’s the problem: many seafarers hesitate to report issues out of fear of being mocked, ignored, or labeled as lazy. This culture must change.
The Wrong Approach: Mockery and Dismissal
Imagine going to a doctor ashore with a health concern, only to be laughed at or brushed off without being taken seriously. How would that feel?
Now, translate that situation to a ship. When a crew member gathers the courage to report a health issue and is met with ridicule or indifference, it not only demoralizes him but can delay critical treatment. On ships, delays can mean the difference between a manageable condition and a medical evacuation.
Leadership Matters
Some Captains and Chief Engineers, unfortunately, view a crew member reporting sick as a liability — something that increases paperwork, raises costs for the company, or reflects poorly on their own performance. But this mindset is flawed.
Suppressing genuine health concerns doesn’t solve a problem — it worsens it. And if things escalate, the situation may demand shore medical assistance, repatriation, or even legal scrutiny — all of which are far more damaging, financially and reputationally, than taking early action.
What Really Happens Onboard
Here are some common scenarios that many seafarers would relate to:
- A sick crew member is asked, “Why don’t you just rest and continue tomorrow?”
- Others joke behind his back, calling him weak or lazy.
- The 2nd Officer is hesitant to make an entry in the medical logbook.
- The Captain frowns at the thought of making a medical report to the company.
- The sick person is made to feel guilty for being unwell.
All these actions create an unhealthy and unsafe working environment.
Medical Assistance from Ashore: A Vital Resource
Today, ships are not alone when it comes to medical emergencies. Most companies have tie-ups with telemedical assistance providers (TMAS) who are available 24/7 to guide onboard medical care.
Even from the middle of the ocean, the ship’s medical officer or Master can:
- Contact shore-based doctors for expert advice.
- Share vital signs, photos, or videos to help with remote diagnosis.
- Get step-by-step treatment guidance.
- Decide with the doctor whether evacuation or diversion is needed.
This service is confidential, professional, and focused on the well-being of the crew. It should never be viewed as a burden or something to be avoided just to save paperwork or costs.
A Culture of Care
It’s time to shift the mindset. Reporting a medical issue should be seen as a responsible act, not an excuse. We must:
- Encourage open communication about health.
- Support the designated medical officer in maintaining records and taking proactive action.
- Train senior officers to respond with empathy and professionalism.
- Make wellness a routine part of safety meetings, not an afterthought.
- Use ashore medical assistance without hesitation when in doubt.
Final Thoughts
The sea is unforgiving, and a crew’s strength lies in its unity and support for one another. Health issues, when addressed early and respectfully, save lives and strengthen morale.
So next time someone approaches you with a health concern, don’t dismiss or downplay it. Listen, help, and support — because tomorrow, it could be you needing that same compassion.
📝 Share Your Story
If you’ve experienced or witnessed something similar onboard — whether it’s about health, work culture, or life at sea — your voice matters. Shippys.org is a platform dedicated to bringing real seafarer experiences to light.
📩 Contribute your story and help create awareness and change.
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