Friday, October 5, 2012

Minding the mind: Phil Newsum and the neuropsychiatric considerations for divers

Phil Newsum image credit: businessweek.com


Every professional in the underwater operations industry, including Phil Newsum, agrees that diving is a risky occupation. Because it deals with a high-pressure environment and a stringent lifestyle, divers need careful appraisal of their emotional and temperamental fitness. Their health should be a major consideration before instating them on duty.

Psychological well-being is an important physical aspect for future and current divers. Those who suffer from personality disorders, such as instability and anti-social traits, may be disqualified to continue with their training. Diving organizations, such as the Association of Diving Contractor International (ADCI), pay attention to such conditions because diving is the kind of job that requires tremendous physical and mental discipline. In addition, divers who are proven guilty of alcoholism and abusive use of steroids and other illegal substances are immediately removed from service.

Phil Newsum image credit: guim.co.uk


Phil Newsum and his colleagues at ADCI do not hire divers who manifest symptoms of neuropsychiatric disorders or organic diseases of the nervous system. Those with history of any form of epilepsy or head injury with sequelae are also disqualified. Intelligence required is at least “normal” in certain standards, and speech impediment may also cause ineligibility.

Professional diving covers a wide range of activities, from deep saturation diving in support of the offshore oil and gas industry to recreational coaching by a professional instructor. Thus, excellent health is necessary to produce excellent results. Failure to comply with certain medical standards may compromise the overall quality of the service.

Phil Newsum image credit: adc-int.org


Know more about Phil Newsum and Association of Diving Contractor International’s services by visiting this website.