Answer: floundering

AnswerCrossword Clue
FLOUNDERINGAt sea.
FLOUNDERINGTrying not to go under
flounderingFLOUNDER, to struggle clumsily
flounderingStruggle mentally; show or feel great confusion
flounderingBe in serious difficulty
flounderingStruggle or stagger helplessly or clumsily in water or mud