Anyone who has ever had a panic attack while diving knows how frightening it can be. The problem is that a panic attack can be deadly. It can result in you holding your breath, hyperventilating, and squandering your air supply. This will cause you to lose your sight and lead you to make bad decisions. Even worse, you could die ten to fifty meters under the sea, breathing compressed air that changes the chemistry of your blood.
The treatment of panic attacks while scubadiving
Treatment of panic attack scuba diving begins with understanding the factors that trigger panic. Panic can cause injury because the diver cannot think clearly and is unable control their actions. Their sole focus is getting to the surface, and their actions are erratic and dangerous. Panic can be a physiological response of severe stress. It affects one's ability control his actions and pay attention. This can lead to dangerous behavior, and can even result in death.
There are several ways to stop panic attacks before they escalate. Divers must be aware of their surroundings and be able to communicate with one another.
Signs of panic attack while scubadiving
If you are scuba diving together, it is important to keep an eye on your partner so that you can see if they are relaxed. If your buddy is staring blankly and is unable to make eye contact, that may be a sign of early panic. Ask your diver to get up if they seem to be suffering from panic attacks.
It is important to calm down panicked divers and give them reassurance. Avoid running over to the side of a dive. This could further escalate the situation and potentially endanger the diver. Also, it is important not to grab onto the diver in an attempt to startle them. The diver could lose control of their air supply and become immobile. If you're unable to calm your diver, please keep your distance and make every effort to get him/her out of the water quickly.
There are many reasons panic attacks while scuba diving may occur. For example, a diver may be prone to panic attacks if they are sensitive to caffeine or alcohol. It is important to limit caffeine and alcohol intake before diving.
Observations to distract yourself from focusing on panic attack scuba diving
You can distract yourself from panic attacks by using observations. The physical reaction of panic involves rapid breathing and increased carbon dioxide in the body. Your brain responds by sending stress hormones, signaling your heart to work harder, and telling you to breathe easier. But this can also deplete your oxygen supply. You must take immediate action if panic attacks are threatening.
Once you recognize that a panic attack is approaching, try focusing on familiar physical sensations like water on the skin or the dive watch. Swim shallower and ascend at a safe, slow pace if possible. This will help you get past panic and keep the dive going.