Submarine disease: what causes it and how to prevent it?

This phenomenon represents increasing tension, conflict and intolerance in small closed groups where members spend time in a limited space. The term comes from  an analogy with conditions in submarines, where the closed environment and long-term isolation can cause psychological and social pressure. Submarine disease can be associated with the adverse effects of limited communication, pressure, monotony or lack of privacy – all of which can contribute to increasing conflicts and negative interpersonal relationships . Submarine sickness was experienced by many individuals during the covid-19 pandemic –  a 2022 study found that 75% of 260 respondents during the lockdown suffered from submarine sickness, manifested by greater sensitivity to their companions.

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In these closed environments, where group members become almost inseparable and are exposed to daily interactions with each other , submarine sickness can cause a number of problems. These include, among others, a lack of tolerance for differences and increasing ostracization (exclusion of an individual from the collective) or conflicts.

How does it manifest itself?

Submarine disease can manifest itself in various ways , but the main manifestations include, above all, increasing tension, frequent conflicts and intolerance within closed groups. One of the characteristic manifestations is also the aforementioned impaired communication, when group members (be it family, friends or colleagues) become less and less willing to share information or accept the opinions of others. This communication barrier then easily creates an atmosphere of mistrust and isolation between individual members.

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Due to growing psychological discomfort, even  small conflicts often lead to arguments, more intense reactions to small things, and in worse cases to  aggressive behavior . The unpleasantness of such a situation has an impact on productivity (usually in the work environment), or a decline in empathy and trust (rather in the circle of close people). Extreme cases can result in the expulsion of an individual from the collective or society or the emergence of social cliques and factions within the group, which further undermines team or family harmony.

Causes, factors, manifestations

As such, the submarine disease has its origin in various factors – one of the main causes is, of course, the already mentioned limited space and contact on a daily basis with a limited group of people. The individual is thus far more aware of the lack of privacy and constant exposure to other members. From a psychological point of view, he may experience feelings of a gradual loss of his own identity, i.e. a problem that involves the suppression of personal opinion, interests or parts of the personality due to, sometimes even perceived, social pressure . A lack of functional communication may also contribute. In closed spaces, specific norms and ways of understanding are often created, so there are far more opportunities for communication noise and other barriers to understanding others.

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Possible effects on the individual and the group

The effects of submarine sickness are usually reduced by gradually changing the physical or mental scenery – most often by individuals ceasing to spend so much time together in an enclosed space. Until then, however, they affect a whole spectrum of issues – impaired mental health, potentially leading to greater susceptibility to anxiety or depression. In addition, the lack of privacy and peer pressure encourages emotional exhaustion and loneliness.

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At the group level, the submarine disease creates a division of the collective. Relationships between members can be marked by mutual mistrust, which prevents effective cooperation or productivity within the cohabitation (for example, you cannot study in peace in the presence of the other, etc.). In extreme cases, factions can form and members splinter, leading to the undermining of solidarity and collective purpose.

6 tips for prevention and solutions 

1. A safe environment: preventing and addressing submarine sickness requires a combination of strategies aimed at promoting healthy interpersonal relationships, communication and teamwork. The first step is to create an open and safe environment where individuals can freely express their opinions, feelings and perceived personal grievances.
2. Regular walks: research clearly shows that time spent in nature is time well spent for mental health. Thanks to the improvement of cognitive functions, you will not only easily and effectively lift your mood, but also reduce stress and tension. If you can’t really get outside, you can supplement the air supply by, for example, opening a window or spending a few minutes on the balcony.
3. Rest in solitude and privacy: ensuring a balanced ratio of work, family and individual life usually effectively prevents emotional exhaustion, feeling of isolation and perceived external pressures. So while parents have responsibilities to their children, partners to each other, etc., that doesn’t mean you should neglect yourself. So treat yourself to time “outside” others. Find a quiet place to read a book, meditate, or listen to an engaging podcast.
4. Aligned circadian rhythm : try to go to bed and get up at a reasonable, but above all, at the same time – this will reduce the risk of mental and other illnesses that could more likely affect you even during submarine sickness.
5. Third party: sometimes you need an independent observer who doesn’t necessarily “take” the side of one or the other (or a larger group of people), but rather help find common understanding and potential solutions to problems.
6. Creative side : the last point refers mainly to the quarantine or otherwise isolation scenario, when a person mainly tries to use free time creatively and engage in creative activities (whether it is playing the piano, putting together puzzles, baking, working with wood or painting acrylic works). Such moments of concentration and “playing” at the same time occupy the brain, and yet relieve stress. At the same time, it brings a sense of fulfillment and anticipation that you have something to look forward to.

What to take from it?

Submarine sickness is a mental condition that can develop when a person is forced to remain in a confined space and is denied the opportunity for diverse social interaction. It usually involves feelings of restlessness, irritability or loneliness, which can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. It is important not to put pressure on yourself and try to create a safe environment in which you can express your concerns and desire for a physical or psychological change in the situation.