Mental health in the commercial fishing industry: Modern uncertainties and traditional risks

Commercial fishers face a range of stressors that impact physical and mental health. However, there is limited research on the level ill-health among nature contribute to their psychological distress. This paper focuses experiences commercial wild-catch analyses results an Australian national survey conducted in 2017 (n = 872) (Appendix S1). We first assess underlying themes perceived stressors, identifying three distinct categories termed ‘traditional risks’, ‘modern uncertainties’ ‘future concerns’. Second, we self-reported distress, demonstrating higher occurrence high very distress comparison with population. Third, examine relationship between different groups finding stronger perceptions both risks’ are associated greater levels fishers. Fourth, recognizing diversity within industry, differences these relationships skippers crew (work role), inshore versus offshore (fishing location). Our analysis demonstrates differentially fisher health depend individual's role industry fishing location. The findings suggest changes factors modern uncertainty stressors—including government management techniques, red tape, media representation political support—could significantly improve sector. [Correction added 09 June 2021, after online publication: Abstract has been corrected this version.]