Research on the mental health status of seafarers from Shunde and relevant influence factors

Abstract

Objective To understand the mental health status, personality, source of psychological stress, coping styles and social support and also to study effects of relevant factors on the mental health of seafarers from Shunde. Methods The cross-sectional design and self-questionnaire were used to make a general survey of 625 seafarers from Shunde. Research efforts consisted of general demographic characteristics, mental health status, psychological stress, coping styles and social support. Results Average score of CHQ-12 was (3.27±1.85) in 625 seafarers, of whom 260 were regarded as in poor mental health Results obtained from logistic regression indicated that factors affecting mental health of seafarers were varied, including education, type of work, marriage status, type A character, length of service, working hours onboard the ship in the recent year, social support, resource of occupational stress, coping styles etc. Conclusions Sailors from Shunde were in poor mental health status. Efforts should be made to reduce psychological stress in accordance with different types of work, length of service and educational levels. And efforts should also be made to help them use appropriate coping styles, give them more support and help in their daily life and work, so as to enhance their mental health. Key words: Seafarers; Mental health ; Affecting factors