Researchers study ‘polar madness’
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From Times Staff and Wire Reports
Working for long periods in the harsh conditions near the North and South poles often causes people to suffer a stew of psychological symptoms dubbed “polar madness,” scientists reported Thursday in the journal the Lancet.
Researchers said 40% to 60% of people on polar expeditions may suffer depression, sleep disruption, anger, irritability and conflict with coworkers. About 5% endure psychological disturbances severe enough to merit treatment with medication or therapy, researchers said.
