How does fatigue contribute to diving stress?

Fatigue significantly impacts a diver's ability to manage stress effectively, leading to increased anxiety and risk during diving. When a diver is fatigued, cognitive functions can diminish, which affects decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to react appropriately to emergencies. The combination of physical exhaustion and mental fatigue can create a heightened sense of anxiety, making it more challenging to respond calmly and effectively to potentially stressful situations underwater. This can result in errors or delayed reactions, which can compromise safety and performance during a dive.

Understanding that fatigue can impair both physical and mental capacities underscores the importance of adequate rest and preparation before diving. By recognizing fatigue as a factor that increases risk, divers can take proactive measures to ensure their safety and well-being while under the water.