You've probably experienced panic attacks while scuba diving. Panic attacks can be fatal. 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. You could even drown ten to fifty metres below the water, inhaling compressed air that alters the chemistry and causing you to die.
Treatment of panic attack scuba diving
Understanding panic attacks while scuba diving is important. Panic can result in injury as a diver becomes unable to think clearly or control their actions. Their sole focus is getting to the surface, and their actions are erratic and dangerous. Panic is a physiological reaction to severe stress. It impairs the ability of a person to control their actions and pay attention in the environment. This can lead to dangerous behavior and even death.
Once a panic attack begins, there are several things that can be done to avoid further damage. Divers need to be aware of the surrounding and learn to communicate.
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. 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 him or her running off to the side of your dive. This may further agitate the situation, and could endanger you. Avoid grabbing onto the diver and triggering an attack. 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. Also, drinking caffeine or alcohol can increase the chance of suffering panic attacks so it is important that you limit your intake before diving.
These observations will distract you from worrying about panic attack scuba diving
Observations can be a powerful distraction from the panic attack. The physical reaction of panic involves rapid breathing and increased carbon dioxide in the body. 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. However, this can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels. If you feel panic attacks coming on, take steps to lessen the severity.
Once you recognize that a panic attack is approaching, try focusing on familiar physical sensations like water on the skin or the dive watch. If possible, swim shallower or ascend at a slow, safe rate. This can help you overcome panic and allow you to continue diving.