It has been interesting to read in other threads comments about the perils or even strange enjoyment of narcosis. I know this is a topic with some strong opinions (like many of our topics). Since this is relevant to all of us who dive I am curious how others have experienced this effect.

In warm, clear open water at 186 ft on air I thought I was fine until I tried to make sense of my computer and for a moment just "saw" the numbers without understanding the data. It took a moment to "focus" my mind, first on tank pressure, then depth, then make a decision to ascend.

Obviously, in an overhead environment an immediate ascent might not have been possible... and the delayed mental processing could have had disastrous consequences in a moment that required sudden problem solving skills.

While I am paying for college for two children I am restricted from Trimix certification... although I am looking forward to the experience. In the meantime, birthdays and a sedentary lifestyle will keep me shallower.