Cabin fever (also called stir-crazy, from the use of stir to mean 'prison'[1]) is not a disease as such, but a claustrophobic reaction, manifested as extreme irritability and restlessness, that takes place when a person or group ends up in an isolated or solitary location, or stuck indoors in confined quarters for an extended period of time.[2] #covideoparty
A person may experience #cabinfever in a situation such as being isolated within a vacation cottage out in the country, or away from civilization. When experiencing cabin fever, a person may tend to sleep, to have a distrust of anyone they are with, or to have an urge to go outside even in bad weather. The concept is also invoked humorously to indicate simple boredom from being home alone for an extended period of time.[3] #covidireland
Cabin fever is not directly fatal to an individual suffering from the peculiar disorder. However, related symptoms can lead the sufferer to make irrational decisions that could potentially cause them to lose their life. Some examples would be suicide or #paranoia, or leaving the safety of a cabin during a terrible snow storm that one may be stuck in.[4]
Therapy
One therapy for #cabinfever is as simple as getting out and interacting with nature directly. Research has demonstrated that even brief interactions with nature can promote improved cognitive functioning, support a positive mood, and overall well-being.[5] Escaping the confinement of the indoors and changing one's scenery and surroundings can easily help an individual experiencing cabin fever overcome their mania. Going outside to experience the openness of the world will stimulate the brain and body enough to eliminate feelings of intense claustrophobia, paranoia, and restlessness associated with cabin fever.[6]
There is little evidence of those suffering from cabin fever seeing therapists or counselors for treatment, most sufferers simply discuss their symptoms with family or friends as a way of changing the feelings of loneliness and boredom. However, there are cases of "cabin fever" that are diagnosed as mid-winter depression[7] or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).[8] weki #covid19ireland
