First, we are all thrilled to celebrate the launch of OneHealth by VIKAND. We believe this approach is the future of total healthcare at sea. OneHealth is an all-inclusive, proactive approach to onboard health and wellness inspired by our company’s deeply held values.   

The World Health Organisation defines “One Health” as an integrated, unifying approach to human health that is sustainable, balanced and optimised. Their efforts have helped make One Health a globally recognised concept and inspired our vision, both in principle and practice. 

For VIKAND, OneHealth represents a holistic approach to supporting seafarer health and happiness through policies, services and solutions that promote better physical and mental health, nutrition, safety, productivity, environment and more. The future of maritime depends on Human Sustainability across every vertical, and on the ability to attract, retain and protect the people who make our industry possible.  

So, it is quite fitting that May is Mental Health Month. Right now, VIKAND has a great opportunity to help the maritime industry change how it views and addresses mental health at sea. We know from research that many seafarers feel isolated and stressed, and that anxiety and depressive disorders rose an estimated 25% during the first year of the pandemic alone.   

As a leader in healthcare at sea, we believe that proactive mental health support is a valuable business investment and a key to long-term human sustainability and worker retention in the maritime industry. Healthy maritime workers are safer, happier and more productive, which is better for everyone – from seafarers to shareholders. 

This month, I encourage you to read the profile of VIKANDER Mimi Schuppler, who is our Engagement and Human Sustainability Director, as well as our insight piece on sexual assault and sexual harassment in the maritime industry. 

As always, our team will be present at leading maritime conferences to network with decision-makers, promote our services and solutions, and to champion the cause of human sustainability at sea. Next up is Nor-Shipping in Oslo, where we’re also a proud sponsor of the 2023 AMVER Awards, followed by the virtual Crew Welfare Week, where VIKAND is honoured to be shortlisted for the Crew Welfare Service Provider Award.