Which type of anxieties can intensify the effects of narcosis?

Low visibility can indeed amplify feelings of anxiety during a dive, which in turn can exacerbate the effects of narcosis. Narcosis, sometimes referred to as nitrogen narcosis, typically occurs at depths greater than 30 meters (about 100 feet) due to the increased partial pressure of nitrogen in the body. When divers encounter low visibility, they may experience uncertainty about their surroundings, which can lead to panic or discomfort. This psychological stress can make the effects of narcosis feel more pronounced, as divers may struggle to differentiate between the symptoms of narcosis and their heightened anxiety.

In challenging visibility conditions, a diver's inability to see effectively can hinder their situational awareness and decision-making, further compounding the effects of narcosis. Divers may become more apprehensive, which can negatively impact their ability to think clearly and react appropriately to potential hazards. Thus, the combination of decreased visibility and the mental state that comes with anxiety serves to magnify the impact of narcosis on a diver's cognitive and physical performance.