Bi-Polar and wants to learn to dive

[fmw625]

My son, 21, married, 1 child, wants to learn to dive. He is bi-polar and on two medications. He takes his medications regularly and would appear normal to most people. I would like to know if he would be a likely canidate for Scuba certification. He swims and snorkles regularly and is very comfortable in and under the water. Before I encourage him I would like to know if anyone has any information on this. I'd rather let it drop than to encourage him just to have him disapointed later.

 

[mstevens]

My son, 21, married, 1 child, wants to learn to dive. He is bi-polar and on two medications. He takes his medications regularly and would appear normal to most people. I would like to know if he would be a likely canidate for Scuba certification. He swims and snorkles regularly and is very comfortable in and under the water. Before I encourage him I would like to know if anyone has any information on this. I'd rather let it drop than to encourage him just to have him disapointed later.

Speaking as a psychiatrist and former NAUI Assistant Instructor, I'd say a lot depends on the medications in question and on how stably controlled his symptoms are. The diagnosis itself should not necessarily be an absolute contraindication to diving.

 

[mrobinson]

Hello - I've encountered a person who had social issues treated by a psychiatrist when this diver was a teenager. We found this out on the medical form he filled out. All parties didn't think much about it until he hit the water. I guess his anxiety in the water was similar to when he was a teenager. It was something unexpected to all of us. I bring it up because it's a good reminder to be taken this seriously. I applaud you for doing so. Good luck with the decisions. I think a simple discover scuba will help fish this out.

 

[Jetwrench]

I dive with a buddy who is bi-polar so if your question is "is it possible?" I can say yes. Should he is the question that should be answered by his doctor or other professionals with the knowledge. He may have to risk disappointment but think of it if his question is answered with a "Yes, you may".

Jet

 

[Kriterian]

Like most medical cases, it should probably be looked at on a case by case basis. There always varying degrees of an illness and it would all depend on which end of the scale your son is located.

Another problem, which isn't as easy to investigate, is his medication. There haven't been enough studies done on how medication reacts under the pressures of the underwater world.

I think with both of these you should contact the Diver's Alert Network, and ask if they have any additional information or can recommend a psychologist that understands diving.

Either way, good luck to both of you.

 

[fmw625]

Thanks for all the input. I'll have to find out what meds he's on and go from there.