The rise of gamification apps is empowering seafarers to take more autonomy over their health and wellness, says wellbeing platform WellAtSea. According to the organisation, mental health remains one of the most under-addressed risks in the maritime industry, and silence is costing lives, productivity and safety.
Latest data shows only 5-10% of eligible employees use traditional mental health helplines or employee assistance programmes each year, leaving the vast majority unsupported. “For many seafarers, speaking openly about mental or physical health challenges is difficult, especially as the majority are male who traditionally find expressing their emotions harder,” says WellAtSea.
”At sea, where stress, isolation, fatigue and depression can escalate faster than in shore-based roles, avoidance is not just a personal issue; it is an operational risk,” says managing director Gisa Paredes.
“WellAtSea is redefining how wellbeing is delivered on board by using gamification to break down barriers, spark engagement and foster genuine human connection. Rather than relying on reactive helplines that often go unused, the programme embeds wellbeing directly into daily life at sea, making it accessible, engaging and stigma-free.
“In an industry where safety is paramount, wellbeing can no longer be treated as an optional extra. It is a strategic imperative, and gamification is proving to be one of the most powerful tools to deliver it.”
