Hi,
Several years ago, I suddenly experienced some physical symptoms, which after several negative medical test results was claimed to be due to some kind of anxiety disorder. They say it's panic disorder due to the fact that it occurs for no reason, even though it's more like sudden annoying physical symptoms rather than panicking. Of course the first few times involved some degree of panic too, due to heart-based-symptoms. After a year or two, the symptoms were significantly reduced, and the last few years it hasn't really bothered me in my daily life. Of course, it's annoying, but it usually lasts a few seconds, and I know what it is, so it doesn't bother me. I even know how to help the symptoms to go away quickly.
The 'attacks' are not caused by stressful situations - but occurs at any time.
I feel that I am in control of it now, but would like to hear your opinion on getting an OWD certificate ? Should I most definitely stay away from it, or is it okay, starting slowly to ensure it does not set off new attacks in itself ?
Of course instructor and diving buddies should be told in advance, so that they are prepared if something more serious should happen.
From what I can see, several divers encounter such panic attacks at some time during their diving experience, but continue with caution ?
Several years ago, I suddenly experienced some physical symptoms, which after several negative medical test results was claimed to be due to some kind of anxiety disorder. They say it's panic disorder due to the fact that it occurs for no reason, even though it's more like sudden annoying physical symptoms rather than panicking. Of course the first few times involved some degree of panic too, due to heart-based-symptoms. After a year or two, the symptoms were significantly reduced, and the last few years it hasn't really bothered me in my daily life. Of course, it's annoying, but it usually lasts a few seconds, and I know what it is, so it doesn't bother me. I even know how to help the symptoms to go away quickly.
The 'attacks' are not caused by stressful situations - but occurs at any time.
I feel that I am in control of it now, but would like to hear your opinion on getting an OWD certificate ? Should I most definitely stay away from it, or is it okay, starting slowly to ensure it does not set off new attacks in itself ?
Of course instructor and diving buddies should be told in advance, so that they are prepared if something more serious should happen.
From what I can see, several divers encounter such panic attacks at some time during their diving experience, but continue with caution ?