What should a diver experiencing panic do to help themselves recover?

When a diver experiences panic underwater, stopping, resting, and breathing slowly and deeply is the most effective strategy for recovery. This approach allows the diver to calm their mind and body, effectively counteracting the physiological and psychological responses associated with panic.

By stopping, the diver can avoid making a situation worse by inadvertently increasing their air consumption or risking an uncontrolled ascent, which could lead to serious complications like decompression sickness. Resting enables the diver to regain composure, and the focus on slow, deep breaths activates the body's relaxation response, promoting a sense of calm and stability.

This method not only helps the diver regain control over their breathing but also reinforces the importance of maintaining a clear head in stressful situations, providing a foundation for making rational decisions, whether that means continuing the dive or ascending safely.