What should a diver do if they experience panic underwater?

When a diver experiences panic underwater, the best course of action is to stop, rest, and breathe slowly and deeply until they recover. This approach allows the diver to regain control over their physiological response to panic, promoting relaxation and preventing the situation from escalating.

Panic can lead to rapid, shallow breathing, which may further increase anxiety and worsen the diver's condition. By focusing on slow, deep breaths, the diver can calm their nervous system and stabilize their heart rate, making it easier to think clearly and make rational decisions.

Establishing a moment of rest can also provide the diver with a chance to assess their environment, check their equipment, and communicate effectively with their buddy if needed. This mindful pause is crucial in ensuring safety and making sure that any further actions are taken with a clear mind.

Handling panic in this way is crucial for safety because responding impulsively—such as swimming to the surface immediately—could lead to serious hazards, including the risk of shallow water blackouts or decompression sickness. Additionally, while signaling for help or focusing on the dive plan can be relevant in different contexts, they are less effective immediate responses when panic is overwhelming. Taking a moment to breathe deeply is the most pragmatic approach to facilitate a safe outcome.