Psychological Challenges

Life aboard a submarine is often characterized by long stretches of boredom punctuated by intense moments of anxiety. With limited entertainment options and a confined environment, it can be particularly tough for those who struggle with claustrophobia. Submarine crews adhere to an 18-hour workday, divided into three shifts of six hours each. This schedule is designed to keep personnel alert while underwater, but adjusting to it can be quite challenging for many.

The first video, "ARA San Juan: The Submarine That Disappeared Netflix Docuseries Review," delves into the mysterious disappearance of a submarine, offering insights into the psychological strains faced by crew members.

Sleep Deprivation

Submarine personnel, including both crew and officers, frequently suffer from sleep deprivation due to the demanding watch schedules and constant maintenance tasks. Even when docked, the work never ceases, leading to a chronic lack of sleep that can result in fatigue and heightened stress levels.

This lack of rest can have severe health consequences, increasing the risks of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Insufficient sleep not only hampers alertness but also contributes to chronic insomnia and various mental health issues, including schizophrenia and PTSD.

Effects on Physical Health

Despite advancements in air quality control aboard modern submarines, the atmosphere is still not as healthy as the air we breathe on land. The air often contains elevated levels of CO2, which, over time, can lead to minor health issues like indigestion and slower healing rates for injuries.

Nutrition and Weight Management

Given the unique challenges of submarine life, crews often receive a more generous food budget to help maintain morale. However, access to good food can lead to overeating, increasing the risk of weight gain, which can be difficult to manage in the confined space of a submarine.

Exercise options are severely limited due to space constraints, leading to a lack of physical activity and weight management difficulties. While exercise bikes were once common, they often become damaged during long deployments, and noisy equipment like free weights is typically prohibited.

Skin and Mental Health Issues

Extended periods underwater, often lasting 90 days or more, mean that crew members are deprived of natural sunlight. This lack of exposure can lead to skin problems and vitamin D deficiencies. Moreover, reduced sunlight can lower serotonin levels, contributing to severe depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Reality vs. Movies

Films like "Below," "U-571," "Black Sea," "Crimson Tide," and "The Enemy Below" may capture the intrigue of underwater life, but they often gloss over the harsher realities. Life in a submarine involves dealing with both external dangers and internal struggles that can be overwhelming.

Living in a submarine is not for everyone; it requires immense patience and mental strength. The prospect of spending months underwater may seem adventurous, but the harsh conditions can challenge even the most resilient individuals.

The second video, "15 Scary Things Found By Submarines," reveals some of the frightening discoveries made during underwater explorations, further illustrating the risks faced by those who operate submarines.

In conclusion, while a brief experience in a submarine might be thrilling, the reality of long-term life underwater is daunting. Hats off to those who endure this challenging environment—would you be willing to spend a few months underwater? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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