Last month, ISWAN joined the GOLD Foundation and AMOSUP in Manila to stage the kick-start forum of ‘Kumusta, Kabaro?’: A Mental Health Awareness Campaign for Seafarers and their Families.

Around 170 participants from 24 maritime institutions attended the event, which focused on delivering Hope, Awareness and Prevention and aimed to invite potential partners to support the cause. The forum was organised by the Gregorio Oca Leadership and Development (GOLD) Foundation in partnership with ISWAN and the Associated Marine Officers and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP).

Speakers included special guest TJ Manotoc, a journalist and mental health advocate, and Dan Aldrich Tolentino, Training Manager at the International Maritime Employers’ Council, who both spoke about their personal experiences of depression and how to overcome the challenges.

A panel of experts addressed the science of depression and what it means to be well at sea and at home. The University of Santo Thomas Graduate School Psychotrauma Clinic referenced ISWAN’s Good Mental Health Guides in their presentation and topics including the signs and symptoms of stress, therapeutic techniques and coping strategies were discussed. Delegates had the opportunity to question the panel and share thoughts and information afterwards.

The forum formed part of a three-year campaign plan working with key future partners from the industry to raise awareness of mental health issues among seafarers and their families. More information about the campaign can be downloaded below.

Special guest TJ Manotoc at the ISWAN stand