In 2025, more than 75% of crisis responses by SCI’s Ministry on the River Chaplains were related to physical or mental health issues, with only 23% connected to accidents. Mariners faced challenges including heart attacks, extreme fatigue, anxiety, depression, substance use, and suicidal thoughts—signs of a deepening wellness crisis within the inland maritime community. As Phil Schifflin, Esq., Director of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy (CMA) observed, “Although safety remains essential, the most significant challenge facing mariners today may be their overall physical and mental well-being.”

In response, SCI commissioned the U.S. Inland Mariner Wellness Assessment, authored by Dr. Martin Slade of Yale University’s Occupational Health Division. The report examines the health and well-being of inland mariners, a workforce historically underrepresented in occupational health research. Drawing on more than two decades of academic literature and industry interviews, the assessment outlines key risks driven by long hours, fatigue, isolation, and demanding working conditions.

The report also offers practical recommendations, including improvements in nutrition, fatigue management, mental health support, leadership training, healthcare access, and organizational culture. It calls for a stronger “culture of care” and emphasizes industry-wide collaboration. The assessment serves as a roadmap for companies and stakeholders committed to improving mariner wellness, safety, and retention across the inland maritime sector.

CMA notes that while the report highlights concerns, it also presents meaningful opportunities for progress. Throughout 2026, Phil Schifflin will lead SCI’s efforts to engage the inland maritime industry in understanding the report’s implications, identifying practical next steps, and working collaboratively to advance critical improvements in mariner wellness.

The full report is available here: