What happens to stress levels when a diver feels overpowered by demands?

When a diver feels overwhelmed by demands, stress levels increase because the diver may perceive the situation as challenging or threatening. This heightened sense of challenge often manifests as physical and emotional responses to his or her environment, which can include anxiety, panic, or discomfort.

In diving, various factors such as environmental conditions, equipment issues, or navigation challenges can contribute to this feeling of being overpowered. When divers experience more demands than they feel they can manage, their body's stress response is activated, leading to an increase in stress levels. This is significant because high stress can impair decision-making abilities, reaction times, and overall performance underwater, making it crucial for divers to recognize their limits and manage their stress effectively.