“You need to be easy to work with, that’s key,” says Purvis. “In a high-stress place, you have to keep performing even when things get tough. No matter how much you prepare, unexpected things will happen.”
Research at polar stations shows that while there can be moments of thrill, boredom can be a real issue. “Out here, everything is so repetitive,” Purvis explains. “You don’t want to be stuck in your room watching Netflix all day.”
To help combat this boredom, Purvis experimented with mindfulness. She organized fun group activities like yoga, Lego building, and painting.
“We’re still analyzing the results, but I felt it helped me, and the team enjoyed these activities. They brought us closer together,” says Purvis. “It’s a simple idea, but it could really enhance future astronaut training.”
Studies indicate that social interactions and creative outlets may be crucial in handling isolation. A survey from the American Psychological Association found that 61% of people experience heightened stress in isolated settings.
In historical contexts, researchers at the Concordia station have been studying the effects of isolation for years, contributing valuable insights into how to maintain mental health in extreme environments.
This knowledge is becoming increasingly relevant as space missions grow longer and more complex. With space travel at the forefront of science and technology, learning from past experiences in isolated locations will help prepare future astronauts for their journeys beyond Earth.
For more detailed insights, check out the ESA’s Concordia research.
