Diving Into Emotional Health: Discover How to Care for Your Mind While Scuba Diving

BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|

Many people find diving to be a calming experience that can promote emotional wellbeing. However, others may feel anxious and claustrophobic underwater, which can detract from the enjoyment of the activity. How can we ensure that diving is a positive and beneficial experience for individuals who may struggle with these emotional challenges?

According to PADI [1] , there is a basic guide to scuba diving equipment for beginners:

  • Mask, snorkel and fins
  • SCUBA: Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus
  • Instruments and dive computers
  • Weights
  • Exposure protection

The same source [2]  affirms, “Diving can significantly improve your mood, your stress levels and your anxiety.” Additionally, a 2016 study carried out by the University of Sheffield’s Medical School displayed a significant improvement in the mental health and wellbeing of military veterans who completed the PADI Deptherapy program [3] : “Many divers notice that the more they improve their physical health, the better and easier diving feels –think easy breathing, strength to carry kit, and great stamina for multiple dives a day [4] ”.

On the other hand, as a parenthesis but important to mention, are the psychological effects that divers have, according to Divers Alert Network (DAN [5] ):

  • Affective disorders: Depression and manic depression (bipolar disorder)
  • Anxiety and phobias: Panic disorders
  • Narcolepsy
  • Schizophrenia
  • Substance abuse: Marijuana, blood alcohol concentration (BAC)

British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC [6] ) mentions some other important benefits of diving: Physical activity, “while underwater, we also have the privilege of being in a sound vacuum. This, combined with deep breathing and mindfulness which comes with diving, can create a safe space to scape your worries and let them go”. It is social without being overwhelming, “diving brings people together. No matter where you are in the world, no matter what language you speak, all divers speak the language of the sea.”

In summary, diving has been shown to have numerous positive effects on mental health, including reducing stress and anxiety, promoting mindfulness and relaxation, and increasing overall life satisfaction.

References

 [1]https://blog.padi.com/a-basic-guide-to-scuba-diving-equipment-for-beginners/

 [2]https://blog.padi.com/how-scuba-diving-can-help-your-mental-health/

 [3]https://deptherapy.co.uk/page/here-to-help/research-and-education/research/rehabilitation-research

 [4]https://blog.padi.com/how-scuba-diving-can-help-your-mental-health/

 [5]https://dan.org/health-medicine/health-resources/diseases-conditions/psychological-issues-and-diving/

 [6]https://www.bsac.com/news-and-blog/mental-health/

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