By Bridgit Patterson
Communications Coordinator

The maritime industry is the backbone of global and domestic trade, yet the human realities behind it often remain unseen. While the line of work comes with many attractive opportunities, circumstances such as long hitches, irregular schedules, high-pressure environments, and time away from loved ones create conditions where stress, loneliness, and fatigue build over time. For those struggling with substance use—or working to maintain recovery—these challenges can feel even more daunting.

Within this environment, substance use can become a way for mariners to cope with the stressors of the job and decompress, thus creating a sense of normalcy within the maritime culture. SCI Chaplain the Rev. Geoffrey Davis, a former mariner, reflects on how deeply this culture can take root: “I was drawn to the industry by a desire for adventure… [but] it also normalized heavy drinking, both in foreign ports and at home.”

For many mariners, the structure of the job can mask underlying issues. Time on the water can create periods of abstinence through necessity while also giving the impression that things are under control—until patterns resume ashore. “Time at sea created forced breaks from alcohol, which gave me a false sense of control… quietly forming an unhealthy cycle for me and for those I loved.”

Recent research underscores just how widespread and urgent these challenges are. SCI commissioned the U.S. Inland Mariner Wellness Assessment, authored by Dr. Martin Slade of Yale University’s Occupational Health Division, to better understand the pressures facing mariners today. Published earlier this year, the report highlights elevated risks of fatigue, anxiety, depression, and substance use—driven by unique challenges and working conditions inherent to the job. The report referenced the importance of recognizing and changing the “culture that encourages (excessive) alcohol use during time off the vessel,” identified by examined literature and prior studies (U.S. Inland Mariner Wellness Assessment, p. 22).

These findings reinforce what Chaplains witness daily: behind the statistics are real people navigating stress, isolation, and, for many, the complicated path toward recovery.

Recovery is rarely a linear process, and the path forward may be unclear. For the Rev. Grace Pardun, SCI Supervisory Chaplain, the journey came in “fits and restarts,” shaped by both struggle and connection. “If you are a mariner and are struggling with sobriety, I get it…You’re not going to get any judgment from me, only grace.”

Her openness challenges a long-standing assumption that recovery must be hidden, or that struggle reflects failure. Pardun emphasizes that recovery is not about perfection, but persistence. Recognizing and letting go of old habits and rebuilding a life takes time and support: “For many, the recovery journey often leads through rocky and unforgiving terrain…You do not have to walk that road alone.”

One of the most important themes that emerges from both Chaplains’ experiences is the importance of connection in recovery. For mariners, however, connection is often the hardest thing to access. Physical distance, demanding schedules, and limited communication can make traditional support systems difficult to maintain. In this context, even a single trusted relationship can make a profound difference.

SCI Chaplains and Chaplain Associates are ready to provide that relationship as they visit vessels, meet mariners dockside, and provide confidential, judgment-free support.

For Davis, his own journey and firsthand encounters with the drinking culture in the industry inform how he approaches this work today, sharing, “I carry these experiences with me… and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside other mariners.” Chaplains listen, build trust, and offer a safe space for mariners to speak honestly, sometimes for the first time.

Pardun underscores this commitment: “If my openness makes you feel safer to reach out for help… realize again that you are not alone.”

Recovery is often framed as something that requires giving things up. But both Pardun and Davis describe it differently—not as an ending, but as a beginning. Pardun adds: “Recovery, to me, has the potential to be the start of an entirely new way of living.” For Davis, recovery means recognizing the impact of one’s choices and committing to a different path: grounded in faith, responsibility, and growth. These perspectives are especially important in an industry where fear of job loss, judgment, or change can prevent people from taking the first step.

At its core, recovery in the maritime industry comes down to one essential truth: no one should have to navigate it alone. Through chaplaincy, advocacy, and compassionate presence, the Seamen’s Church Institute continues to provide a lifeline to mariners around the world—offering connection in moments of isolation and hope in moments of struggle.

As Pardun reminds those who may be hesitating to reach out: “You are not alone. SCI Chaplains are here, ready to walk alongside you, whenever and wherever your journey takes you.”