Mental Health at Sea: Finding Support for Commercial Fishermen

Working as a commercial fisherman is one of the toughest, yet most rewarding jobs out there. The freedom of the open water, the pride in a good haul, the connection to generations before you — it’s all part of what makes this life special.

But to be honest, fishing can be hard on mental health. Long trips offshore, unpredictable weather, isolation, financial pressure, physical danger, exhaustion, and time away from family all piles up. Even the toughest crews hit rough patches, mentally and emotionally.

You’re not alone if you’ve been feeling worn down, anxious, or disconnected. The truth is that many commercial fishermen struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. There’s a strong “tough it out” culture in the Atlantic Canadian fishing industry, where self-reliance is seen as a badge of honour. That independence is a strength — but it can also keep people from finding support or reaching out for help.

Remember: asking for help doesn’t make you weak. It means you’re smart enough to know when to steady the ship to help weather the storm. 

The Anchor: What’s Weighing You Down?

Here are a few common thoughts shared by local fishermen across Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and the Maritimes:

• “I don’t sleep right anymore.”
• “I feel like I’m always on edge.”
• “I don’t talk to anyone about how I’m feeling.”
• “If I miss a trip, I lose money.”
• “I feel guilty when I’m home, and lost when I’m not.”

Sound familiar? Add in a rough season, crew issues, or a close call on the water, and it’s no wonder things start to feel heavy.

Being out at sea takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Stress, fatigue, trauma — they build up quietly, until one day they’re too much to carry. And when that happens, it’s not a sign of weakness — it’s a sign that you’ve been running on empty for too long.

Talk on the Dock, Not Just the Deck

You don’t have to go through this alone. Talking about mental health at sea might feel uncomfortable, but it can change everything.

• Talk to a crewmate. Chances are, they’ve been through something similar.
• Check in with yourself. Take five quiet minutes a day — it’s not wasted time.
• Share a resource. If you notice someone struggling, pass along a number or link. That small act could save a life.

Your mental health is just as important as your physical safety. If your brain’s fuel gauge is running low, you can’t run the boat — or your life — the way you want to.

You don’t have to overhaul everything or be “fixed.” Just take one small step such as calling a mental health helpline for fishermen, talking to someone you trust, or just taking that extra deep breath.

You already know how to face storms. You’ve been doing it your whole career. But remember, storms pass faster when you’ve got someone on the radio.

So, keep your head up. Keep talking. And don’t wait until you’re sinking to reach out.

Here is a list of contacts to stick either on the fridge or in the wheelhouse: