A review of astronaut mental health in manned missions: Potential interventions for cognitive and mental health challenges.

Journal: Life sciences in space research

Volume: 28

Issue: 

Year of Publication: 2021

Affiliated Institutions:  Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) c/o European Space Policy Institute, Schwarzenbergplatz , Vienna, Austria; Astrobiology Unit, Space Life Sciences Division, Engineering and Space-Systems Department, National Space Research and Development Agency, P.M.B. , Abuja, Nigeria. Electronic address: oluwafemifunmilola@gmail.com. Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) c/o European Space Policy Institute, Schwarzenbergplatz , Vienna, Austria; Department of Psychology, American University of Beirut, Lebanon. Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) c/o European Space Policy Institute, Schwarzenbergplatz , Vienna, Austria; Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, University Ave, Toronto, Ontario, MG V, Canada. Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) c/o European Space Policy Institute, Schwarzenbergplatz , Vienna, Austria; Department of Medicine, University of Guadalajara, Sierra Mojada Street, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico . Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) c/o European Space Policy Institute, Schwarzenbergplatz , Vienna, Austria; Department of Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

Abstract summary 

Space is an isolated, confined environment for humans. These conditions can have numerous effects on astronaut mental health and safety. Psychological and social issues affect space crew due to the isolation, confinement, and prolonged separation from family and friends. This area of research is particularly crucial given the space sector's plans for Martian colonies and space tourism, as well as to aid astronauts when under high stress. Therefore, this paper reviews the effects of isolation/confinement on psychological and cognitive health; impact of radiation and microgravity on cognitive health; and implications of disturbances to the circadian rhythm and sleep in space. Possible solutions to relevant mentioned cognitive and mental health challenges are also discussed.

Authors & Co-authors:  Oluwafemi Funmilola A FA Abdelbaki Rayan R Lai James C-Y JC Mora-Almanza Jose G JG Afolayan Esther M EM

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations : 
Authors :  5
Identifiers
Doi : 10.1016/j.lssr.2020.12.002
SSN : 2214-5532
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Aerospace Medicine
Other Terms
Astronaut;Cognitive/mental challenges;Manned mission;Mental health;Psychology
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Publication Country
Netherlands