Wayne -- Thank you.
Now, what about "un-adaptation" -- does it occur too or is it "like riding a bicycle" -- once learned (experienced), forever there?
Peter "un-adaptation" occurs, however not in the same way as adaptation. It is like riding a bicycle in some ways. If someone hasn't ridden in a couple of years, they will likely still be able to ride, but not as well as they once did. I believe that the adaptation process is primarily mental attitude/state-of-mind. There are physical properties such as cold, exertion, etc., that affect narcosis, yet we believe that non-physical factors like light also have an affect. If everything was physical, it would be more likely that a person would react in a similar way under repeated exposures. We know that this is not the case, as the same person can react differently to narcosis at different times. This isn't scientifically understood, so I can only speak to the reaction and not the cause.
New Diver's experiencing narcosis are understandably anxious and in some cases fearful. Experienced Divers often have a different attitude. In the Chamber, the inexperienced are taken unawares. They tend to go with the flow and make no attempt to resist what they are feeling. When subjects leave the Chamber, it's typical to hear someone say "Hey man, that was a blast! What a great time," or "That's a good reason to learn to dive!" They don't really have a clue about the danger that exists to the Diver.
When I undertake a Deep-Air Dive (dry or wet), I put-on my game face. I do the same thing when piloting a CCR, or when entering a Cave or Wreck (regardless of the breathing mixture being used). It's all business. I approach Deep-Air as a challenge to overcome in a similar way. I don't allow myself to have 'fun' until the dive is completed. Then I can relax and go over everything in my mind. I survived the experience.
Some people may say "Why do it?" Why dive a Cave, Wreck, Iceberg, or other overhead environment? In-fact why dive at all? Why climb a mountain, sky dive, fly an airplane, or ski a triple diamond run? All are an increased risk, but they have been part of my life and help define who I am. There are worse things than dieing doing what you love to do. I certainly don't want that outcome, but if that's the way it has to be, I'm good with that. I'd hazard to say that most of us on SB have a passion for life; that's why we dive in the first-place isn't it?
For those interested in diving Deep-Air: get trained, get experience and get diving. Remember to tread slowly and be vigilant. Narcosis is deceptive and it awaits the unwary...
"If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins."
Benjamin Franklin
