Stress Disorders in the General Population

Stress-related disorders are common in the general population and can affect individuals of all ages and social backgrounds. These disorders stem from an excessive or prolonged response to stress, which can have negative consequences for mental and physical health.

The most common stress-related disorders are anxiety and depression. Anxiety is characterized by excessive fears and worries that can interfere with daily life. Depression is characterized by a depressed mood, loss of interest in daily activities, and a decrease in energy. Both disorders can occur simultaneously or separately.

There are also other stress-related disorders such as:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Adjustment disorder (AD)

These disorders can cause symptoms such as recurrent thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, intense fears, difficulty concentrating, exhaustion, and sleep disturbances.

It is important to note that stress is a normal and natural phenomenon. However, excessive or prolonged stress can lead to mental health disorders. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the signs of stress-related disorders and seek help if needed. Effective interventions for stress-related disorders include therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, physical exercise, lifestyle changes, and, of course, scuba diving.

Why has stress increased so dramatically in recent times?

It is likely that the global events of 2020 and the subsequent years have had a significant impact on the stress levels of the worldwide population. The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the lives of many, causing disruptions in daily routines and concerns about health and financial security. Business closures and layoffs have led to increased unemployment, creating financial uncertainty for many individuals. Travel restrictions and social distancing measures have resulted in social isolation and heightened loneliness for many people.

Furthermore, global events such as racial protests and political tensions may also have contributed to the rise in stress. Social media and online media outlets can play a role in this by disseminating anxiety-inducing information and amplifying fears and concerns.

It’s important to note that the impact on stress varies from person to person, and individual vulnerability factors such as mental health history, experiences of trauma, and social resources should be taken into account to understand how global events have affected a specific individual.

What are the differences between stress, anxiety, anguish, and terror?

• Stress is a normal physiological response to a situation perceived as threatening.
• Anxiety is an emotional reaction to an uncertain or potentially dangerous situation.
• Anguish is a feeling of intense and persistent worry, often without apparent reason.
• Terror is an intense and panicked fear.

All these terms can overlap, and there may be nuances in meaning depending on the context. Generally, stress is considered a normal response to a stressful situation, while anxiety, anguish, and terror are seen as excessive or inappropriate reactions to a situation.

What are the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety?

The physical symptoms of stress and anxiety can vary considerably from person to person, but here are some common symptoms:

• Heart palpitations or increased heart rate
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Excessive sweating
• Chest pains or tightness sensations
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Trembling or shivering
• Muscle pains or stiffness
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Changes in appetite

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety can be similar to those of other medical conditions. It is crucial to consult a doctor for a diagnosis if you believe you are experiencing persistent stress or anxiety. Treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, meditation, and breathing techniques (which the Bathysmed protocol develops throughout) can help manage symptoms of stress and anxiety.

What are the different anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders that can affect individuals in different ways. The main types of anxiety disorders are:

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Characterized by excessive and persistent worries and fears that interfere with daily life. Individuals with GAD may also experience physical symptoms such as heart palpitations and headaches.
2. Specific Phobia: Characterized by an excessive and irrational fear of a specific object or situation, such as heights, snakes, or airplanes. Individuals with specific phobias may avoid situations that trigger their fears.
3. Panic Disorder: Characterized by sudden and unpredictable panic attacks, accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, nausea, and dizziness.
4. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by obsessions (recurrent and intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors) that interfere with daily life.
5. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance related to a traumatic event.
6. Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Characterized by excessive and irrational fear of being judged or rejected in social or performance situations.

It is important to note that these anxiety disorders can coexist, and it is crucial to consult a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

How can scuba diving, especially Bathysmed diving, reduce anxiety disorders?

Bathysmed diving can help reduce anxiety disorders for several reasons:

1. Relaxation: Bathysmed diving relies on techniques derived from meditation and sophrology. Immersion provides a calm and peaceful environment that can help relax the body and mind. The regular and deep breathing required for diving can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Distraction: Scuba diving can provide a beneficial distraction for individuals with anxiety who may be preoccupied with anxious thoughts. Focusing on oneself, the surroundings, and practicing Bathysmed exercises helps redirect attention away from anxious thoughts.
3. Sensory Stimulation: Bathysmed diving offers a different sensory stimulation compared to traditional scuba diving, which can help break away from the isolation and monotony that may accompany anxiety. The exercises at different levels of Bathysmed diving assist individuals in better controlling their bodily tension and, consequently, their emotions.
4. Sense of Control: Individuals with anxiety who have undergone Bathysmed dives often report a better sense of control over their environment, body, and emotions.

Bathysmed: The Only Specialized Training in Anti-Stress Diving

Conventional scuba diving can already be beneficial for mental health, as demonstrated by our initial study DivStress. Bathysmed diving, on the other hand, enhances this positive effect even more through a gradual and measured approach, as supported by several clinical studies (post-traumatic stress, burnout…).