You've probably experienced panic attacks while scuba diving. A panic attack can lead to serious consequences. 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.
Panic attack treatment scuba diving
The first step in treating panic attacks while scuba diving involves understanding the causes. Panic can lead to injury because a diver is unable to think clearly and consciously control their actions. Their sole focus is getting to the surface, and their actions are erratic and dangerous. Panic is a physiological response to severe stress, and it impairs the ability to control a person's actions and pay attention to the environment. This can cause dangerous behavior and can even lead to death.
There are many things you can do to prevent panic attacks from escalating. For instance, divers should stay alert to the surroundings and learn to communicate with other divers.
Signs of panic attack scuba diving
When scuba diving with a partner, keep an eye on your buddy's face to see if he or she is in a relaxed state. You may notice a sign that your buddy is having panic attacks. If your diver is having panic attacks, you should ask him/her for help.
Calming down and reassuring panicked divers is essential. Avoid running over to the side of a dive. This could further escalate the situation and potentially endanger the diver. It is also important to not grab on to the diver, as this could trigger an attack. This could result in the diver losing control over their air supply and becoming immobile. Keep a safe distance from the diver and help them to get out of the water.
There are many reasons panic attacks while scuba diving may occur. A diver who is sensitive to alcohol or caffeine may experience panic attacks. You should also avoid caffeine or alcohol before diving.
Here are some observations that will help you distract from the panic attack while scuba diving
Observations are an effective way to distract from panic attacks. Panic attacks can cause rapid breathing and an increase in carbon dioxide levels. Your brain reacts to an increase in carbon dioxide levels by producing stress hormones. This signals your heart and lungs that it is working harder. But this action can deplete your tank of oxygen. You must take immediate action if panic attacks are threatening.
After you have recognized that panic attacks are coming, you can start to focus on familiar physical sensations such water on the skin, or the dive-watch. Try to swim at a shallower depth or climb at a slower, safer rate. This can help you overcome panic and allow you to continue diving.