Maine fishermen have physically and mentally demanding jobs that are compounded by schedules that are dictated by the weather, isolation, economic uncertainty, and uncontrollable circumstances. While little data exists regarding depression and anxiety amongst commercial fishermen, there is ample data that shows that job insecurity can increase effects on mental health; that according to the CDC, commercial fishing is one the most dangerous jobs in the United States; and, that one in five Mainers seek treatment for anxiety or depression in a given year, and men are three times more likely to die by suicide.
Because of this, MCFA has been working diligently over the past year to advocate for more mental health and wellness support services for Maine fishermen. And in light of current uncertainties that have been exacerbated by the pandemic, MCFA sought and received funding to help provide fishermen access to counseling and substance abuse support.
If you know a fisherman or harvester in need of counseling or support, please reach out to MCFA. We have a group of counselors we have partnered with who specialize in this kind of support, and MCFA will cover the costs for the first few sessions of counseling.
Your loved one's name will stay anonymous to MCFA.
E-mail Monique directly at monique@mainecoastfishermen.org for more information.
“It’s important to me and my friends and family who go fishing that there are resources available that can help us deal with some of the challenges we are facing. There is so much we have to deal with right now and it’s really taking a toll on a lot of us. I think even just letting people know that some fishermen are pretty anxious and depressed right now is important.” Alex Todd, Chebeague Island fisherman and MCFA acting chair
Please help us build and continue this program.
The funds for this effort are limited, but we want to do what we can to make sure that we are able to continue it. Your support helps. Make a donation to this program by donating and noting in your donation that it should go to "wellness", and 100% of the donation will go to supporting efforts to connect Maine fishermen with appropriate mental health support services and resources.
Together, we persevere.
