What should you do if you feel disoriented underwater?

Feeling disoriented underwater can be a disconcerting experience, but it is essential to respond appropriately to ensure your safety. Pausing and taking a few deep breaths allows you to calm your physiological response to stress and regain your composure. This tactic gives you a moment to assess your situation, understand your surroundings, and reorient yourself without making impulsive decisions.

Taking deep breaths can help manage any potential panic, and pausing prevents unnecessary movement that could exacerbate the disorientation or lead to an unsafe ascent. Regaining composure in a controlled manner is a vital skill for divers to maintain safety and awareness, ensuring they can think clearly about their next steps.

Moving immediately to the surface might not be the best course of action, as it can lead to other hazards, such as decompression sickness or a rapid ascent scenario, which requires careful consideration and adherence to safe diving practices. Similarly, signaling for your buddy to take control might not always be necessary or practical; it is often better to manage your own situation if possible, so you retain control over your own safety. Closing your eyes might provide temporary relief but does not effectively address disorientation and can leave you vulnerable to other risks in the underwater environment.