Mental health has become one of the greatest challenges facing seafarers today. According to recent statistics, it ranks among their most difficult struggles. Various factors contribute to this growing concern, making it a complex issue to address. Alarmingly, mental health has become a silent struggle that, if left unnoticed, can lead to devastating consequences.

Over the years, we have encountered cases of seafarers diagnosed with depression and have heard of others who struggled while on board, some of which tragically resulted in suicide. With the increasing number of seafarers facing mental health challenges, it begs the question: How do we, as Christians, respond to this need?

With these concerns in mind, SCFS launched its Values Formation program at West Bay College last April. Our desire is to prepare future seafarers for the emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges they may encounter, whether at sea or within their families. We want to help equip them with biblical values and a Christ centered perspective so that, when faced with circumstances beyond their control, they will not succumb to hopelessness but instead respond with resilience and faith.

While students receive the technical knowledge and skills they need to become competent maritime professionals through their education, SCFS seeks to complement that training by helping them build a strong spiritual foundation rooted in God's Word. Through Values Formation, we desire to equip them with biblical principles that will guide them in navigating life's difficulties and encourage them to place their hope and trust in Christ.

At present, around 15 to 30 students regularly attend the Values Formation sessions. Little by little, many have begun opening up about the struggles they face at home. Our facilitators, who are also our church partners, patiently listen to their concerns, encourage them, and pray with each one. Through these conversations, we hope to remind them that they are not alone and to gently point them to the hope that is found in Christ.

Ultimately, our goal is not merely to teach values but to point these young men and women to the true source of hope, Jesus Christ. We pray that as they anchor their lives in Him, they will be equipped to face life's challenges with faith, perseverance, and the assurance that they are never alone.

Jessica Segundo
SCFS Philippines Follow-Up Coordinator