Wilderness Sickness is a group of illnesses that affect people who are spending time in the wilderness. Common symptoms include muscle aches, loss of appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting and confusion. It can become serious and be life-threatening if not treated properly. The best way to avoid getting Wilderness Sickness is to take preventative measures before you leave and to stay aware while you’re out there so you can recognize the signs and get help quickly if needed.
What is wilderness sickness
If you’ve ever been feeling low after spending time in nature, you may be suffering from wilderness sickness. Also known as nature deficit disorder, this condition is characterized by feelings of anxiety, depression, and withdrawal after being away from nature for too long. Symptoms can include insomnia, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. If you think you may have wilderness sickness, there are a few things you can do to ease your symptoms. First, try to spend more time outside. This can be difficult if you live in an urban area, but even taking a walk in a park can help. If possible, plan a trip to a more rural or wild area where you can really immerse yourself in nature.
The symptoms
If you love spending time in the great outdoors, you may be familiar with the term wilderness sickness. Wilderness sickness is a condition that can occur when someone is away from civilization for an extended period of time. Symptoms include anxiety, depression, irritability, and restlessness. If you find yourself feeling homesick or longing for the comforts of home while in the wilderness, you may be suffering from wilderness sickness.
Treatment options
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for wilderness sickness, but there are some general principles that can help. The most important thing is to get yourself to a safe place as soon as possible. If you can’t do that, then the next best thing is to find a way to calm yourself down and relax. Sometimes that means deep breathing exercises, other times it means getting into a comfortable position and sleeping. It all depends on the individual.
How to prevent it
One way to prevent wilderness sickness is to be aware of the symptoms and take measures to avoid them. For example, you can:
-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding dehydration.
-Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.
-Eat small meals frequently to avoid fatigue and low blood sugar.
-Get plenty of rest to stay alert and avoid getting overwhelmed.
-Pace yourself when hiking or engaging in other activities.
-Be prepared for changes in weather and terrain.
-Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
Other examples of wilderness sickness
1. An unusual fear of wild animals.
2. A sense of dread when entering the woods.
3. A feeling of being watched while hiking alone.
4. An uneasiness about sleeping outdoors.
5. A constant fear of getting lost.
6. A need to constantly check for bear tracks or other signs of danger.
7. A overwhelming feeling of loneliness and isolation in nature.
