Isolation Conditions for Stress and Resilience
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to understand how individuals adapt and remain resilient during eight days of isolation from the outside world. Participants will spend a week in a controlled environment to observe the effects of confinement, limited social interaction, and a monotonous routine on stress and well-being. This treatment, known as "8-Days in an Isolation, Confinement Unit," seeks individuals with a background in STEM or military service, who are free of psychological issues, and meet other specific health criteria. The study could enhance strategies for managing stress in isolated or confined situations. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research on human resilience in isolation.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have certain medical conditions or use substances like tobacco, you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for participants?
Research has shown that spending time alone in an isolation unit can affect mental health. Studies have found that people in these settings often experience increased anxiety and depression. These feelings may arise from the stress of being alone and separated from others.
Other research suggests that isolation can also lead to anger and other stress-related issues. These effects can vary for each person; some may feel very upset, while others might adjust more easily.
Considering these potential effects is important when deciding to join a trial involving isolation. Understanding past reactions can help in making an informed choice.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a unique approach to understanding stress and resilience by placing participants in an isolation and confinement unit for 8 days. Unlike traditional methods that rely on surveys or controlled lab settings to study stress, this approach immerses participants in a real-world, high-stress environment. This could provide new insights into how people adapt and cope under prolonged stress, potentially leading to more effective strategies for enhancing mental resilience.
What evidence suggests that 8-days in an isolation, confinement unit is effective for studying stress and resilience?
Research has shown that being alone in a small space can affect mental health. Many studies have found that these situations often cause stress, confusion, and even anger. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation significantly impacted people's mental health and stress management. Similar conditions in solitary confinement have been linked to various mental and physical health problems. This trial will involve participants spending 8 days in an isolation confinement unit to explore how people cope and become more resilient in these settings.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
David Dinges, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking individuals aged 30-55 with a master's degree or equivalent in STEM or military experience, who are physically and mentally healthy with a BMI under 35. It excludes those with acute medical conditions, major psychiatric illnesses, substance abuse issues, certain cardiovascular/neurological problems, and specific MRI contraindications like metallic implants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Isolation and Confinement
Subjects will spend 7-night/8-day in an isolated and confined unit with up to 3 other subjects
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in resilience, stress, brain structure and function, sleep, biomarker response to stress, cognitive performance, and heart rate
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- 8-Days in an Isolation, Confinement Unit
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pennsylvania
Lead Sponsor
University of Pittsburgh
Collaborator
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Collaborator