The CMTS Mariner Mental Health Working Group hosted a virtual discussion, "Challenges and Solutions to Mariner Mental Health and Wellbeing" on Wednesday January 11th, 2023. This meeting discussed the challenges and real solutions to support the mental health and wellbeing of mariners. The program included one presentation and two panel discussions:
Presentation: Behavioral Health is the Foundation of Mariner Health
- Emily Reiblein, Director of Health, Safety, Security, and Environment, Crowley Logistics
Panel 1: Framing Conditions Impacting Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Moderator: Matt Mueller, Workforce Development Officer, U.S. Maritime Administration
- Miriam Anthony, Chief Mate, Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots
- Carol Berry, Marine Personnel Manager, Ocean Ships Inc.
- Emily Bull, Mariner, Women Offshore
- Jason Zuidema, Executive Director, North American Maritime Ministry Association
Panel 2: Facilitating Real Change for U.S. Mariners
- Moderator: Dr. Anthony Arita, Clinical Psychologist, Department of Homeland Security
- Christine MacMillan, Career Development Services and SAVE Program Coordinator, Women Offshore
- Thomas Martin, Chief of Vessel Operations, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Gregg Pelowski, Director, Military Sealift Command
- Peter Sutton, Vice President, HSSE & Operations Integrity, Crowley Shipping
The first panel discussed the conditions that can impact the wellbeing of US mariners. The second panel discussed how federal agencies, employers, unions, and mariners can take the steps necessary to help protect and support this essential workforce. A video recording and transcript of the virtual discussion can be found below.
For more information about the CMTS's Mariner Mental Health Working Group, please contact qom1@cdc.gov