As isolation becomes more prolonged, work and play areas have become more restricted and our interdependency on technology to communicate is now essential. Being trapped at home or in any one place for a long time can be challenging. But, imagine what it would be like to be stuck in a confined capsule floating through space!

What happens when we travel to extreme environments like outer space or the polar regions? What effects do these ventures have on our physical and mental well-being?

In an attempt to answer these questions, individuals at NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, have been studying the effects of isolation on humans for decades and psychologists have been identifying some helpful coping mechanisms. In this episode, we will be speaking to Dr. Peter Suedfeld about his research on adaptation strategies in order to cope with challenges, stressors, and dangers.

Interested in learning more? To answer that question, grab a pen, take out a napkin, and join us on our podcast at backofanapkin.org! Check out Dr. Suedfeld's work at psych.ubc.ca/~psuedfeld.