Understanding the Effects of Deep Space Living on Health and Well-being

Filed By:
CMDR Enys, R.
Clearance:

Understanding the Effects of Deep Space Living on Health and Well-being

PURPOSE The purpose of this project is to investigate the physical, mental, and social impacts of prolonged deep-space living on the health and wellbeing on Starfleet personnel and civilian residents aboard DS13. By understanding the behavioural patterns, environmental factors, and challenges unique to station life, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for DS13 residents and contribute to a larger Starfleet-wide project on life onboard several deep space environments.


METRICS

All metrics will be measured primarily by patient interviews.

1. Physical Health Metrics

Metric Purpose Follow up Method
Nutritional Choices Identify reliance on replicators for unbalanced meals and skipped meals. Replicator Usage logs, dietary workshops
Exercise and Physical Activities Evaluate participation in fitness programmes or holodeck activities. Observations, participations rates in fitness activities
Recurring Illnesses Identify trends like fatigue, headaches, or immune system weaknesses linked to habits. Medical logs

2. Sleep Hygiene Metrics

Metric Purpose Follow up Method
Sleep Duration and Quality Understand sleep patterns and identify disruptions caused by stress or routines. Sleep analysis study
Evening and Pre-Sleep Routines Identify habits like late holodeck use that interfere with circadian rhythms. Observations
Lighting and Environmental Impact Determine if artificial lighting supports healthy sleep cycles. Feedback during medical check-ups

3. Mental Health Metrics

Metric Purpose Follow up Method
Stress Levels Assess the primary sources of stress and effectiveness of coping mechanisms. Self-reported stress levels, and counselling feedback
Feelings of Isolation Identify individuals struggling with community integration or loneliness. Observations during social activities
Mental Fatigue and Burnout Evaluate signs of reduced focus, mood changes, or morale issues. Departmental productivity trends

4. Social Habits Metrics

Metric Purpose Follow up Method
Community Participation Measure attendance and engagement in station events or group activities. Observations and feedback from event organisers
Interactions with Others Assess interpersonal dynamics and integration between civilians and Starfleet personnel. Observations during social activities, Informal discussions
Preferences for Solitary Activities Understand tendencies towards isolation or group bonding. Lifestyle discussions

5. Work-Life Balance Metrics

Metric Purpose Follow up Method
Workload Impact on Health Determine if workload affects physical and mental health. Discussions with department heads and junior officers
Use of Free Time Identify whether individuals are engaging in relaxing or fulfilling activities during downtime. Evaluation of free time activities
Work-Life Satisfaction Evaluate how effectively individuals are balancing their professional responsibilities with personal well-being and fulfilment. Observe trends in morale and productivity
5 Likes

Interview Questions

1. Physical Health Metrics

1. Nutritional Choices

Questions:

  • “How often do you prepare a balanced meal, or do you mostly rely on replicators for convenience?”
  • “Are there particular food groups you feel you are missing in your diet? For example, fresh vegetables or proteins?”
  • “Do you skip meals or find yourself eating irregularly due to workload or other factors?”

Probing Questions:

  • “If you use replicators, do you feel the options are satisfying and nutritious?”
  • “What kind of meals do you tend to prefer on busy days?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Rarely eats balanced meals, frequently skips meals, poor nutrition.
2 Occasionally eats balanced meals but struggles with consistency.
3 Regularly eats balanced meals but occasionally skips or neglects key nutrients.
4 Consistently maintains a balanced diet with minimal issues.
5 Excellent nutritional habits, highly aware of dietary needs.

2. Exercise and Physical Activity

Questions:

  • “How often do you engage in physical activity or use the station’s fitness facilities?”
  • “Do you feel you have enough time in your day to stay physically active?”
  • “Are there any specific barriers that prevent you from exercising as much as you’d like?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Do you prefer solo exercise, group activities, or holodeck programmes?”
  • “Have you experienced changes in your energy or fitness levels since arriving on DS13?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 No regular physical activity; completely sedentary lifestyle.
2 Rare or infrequent exercise, citing significant barriers.
3 Moderate activity levels, but inconsistent due to work or habits.
4 Regularly engages in exercise and maintains physical activity.
5 Highly active, regularly uses facilities and prioritises fitness.

3. Recurring Illnesses

Questions:

  • “Have you experienced recurring physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or other ailments recently?”
  • “Do you feel these issues are connected to your routines or habits, such as diet, sleep, or work stress?”
  • “How often do you visit the medical bay for minor illnesses or concerns?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Do you think environmental factors, such as air quality or lighting, contribute to these issues?”
  • “Have you noticed patterns in when these symptoms occur?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Regular, persistent symptoms with no improvement over time.
2 Frequent symptoms but manageable with medical intervention.
3 Occasional symptoms, linked to specific triggers or habits.
4 Rare or mild symptoms that do not disrupt daily life.
5 No recurring physical symptoms; excellent physical health.

Composite Score

Each individual is scored between 1 and 5 for each metric. A composite score can be calculated to summarise their overall physical health:

Composite Physical Health Score =
(Nutritional Choices Score + Exercise and Physical Activity Score + Recurring Illnesses Score) ÷ 3

Interpretation of Scores:

1–2.5: High-risk behaviours requiring immediate intervention.
2.6–3.5: Moderate concerns; some behavioural adjustments recommended.
3.6–5: Healthy habits; minimal intervention needed.


2. Sleep Hygiene Metrics

1. Sleep Duration and Quality

Questions:

  • “How many hours of sleep do you typically get each night?”
  • “Do you feel rested when you wake up, or do you often feel fatigued?”
  • “Have you experienced any disruptions to your sleep schedule recently, such as difficulty falling asleep or waking up during the night?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Do you think stress or duty-related concerns are affecting your sleep?”
  • “Are there specific times of day when you feel most tired or alert?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Chronic sleep deprivation, fatigue, and disrupted patterns.
2 Frequently feels unrested, inconsistent sleep schedule.
3 Moderate sleep quality with occasional disruptions.
4 Consistently good sleep but minor, infrequent issues.
5 Excellent sleep quality and consistent rest.

2. Evening and Pre-Sleep Routines

Questions:

  • “What does your typical evening routine look like? Do you take time to relax before going to bed?”
  • “Do you often engage in stimulating activities, like holodeck sessions or work, close to bedtime?”
  • “Are there habits you’ve noticed that make it harder for you to fall asleep?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Do you use PADDs or look at bright lights late in the evening?”
  • “Have you tried adjusting your routine to improve your sleep?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 No relaxing evening routine; habits actively disrupt sleep.
2 Occasionally engages in stimulating activities before bed.
3 Balanced routine but occasionally affected by work or stress.
4 Mostly effective routine with minor adjustments needed.
5 Well-established evening routine that promotes good sleep.

3. Lighting and Environmental Impact

Questions:

  • “Do you find the lighting in your quarters comfortable for your sleeping needs?”
  • “Have you adjusted the default lighting settings to suit your preferences better?”
  • “Do you feel the environmental conditions, such as noise or air circulation, impact your ability to sleep?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Would you say the lighting mimics natural cycles well enough for you?”
  • “Have you noticed any external factors disrupting your rest, like noise or nearby activity?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Significant issues with lighting or environment disrupting sleep.
2 Occasional disturbances caused by environmental factors.
3 Generally good environment with minor adjustments needed.
4 Comfortable and supportive environment with occasional complaints.
5 Ideal environmental conditions that fully support healthy sleep.

Composite Score

Each individual is scored between 1 and 5 for each metric. A composite score can be calculated to summarise their overall sleep hygiene:

Composite Sleep Hygiene Score =
(Sleep Duration and Quality Score + Evening and Pre-Sleep Routines Score + Lighting and Environmental Impact Score) ÷ 3

Interpretation of Scores:

1–2.5: Significant sleep challenges requiring intervention.
2.6–3.5: Moderate concerns that may benefit from behavioural adjustments.
3.6–5: Healthy sleep habits with minimal or no intervention needed.


3. Mental Health Metrics

1. Stress Levels

Questions:

  • “How would you rate your stress levels on an average day aboard the station?”
  • “What are the primary sources of stress for you—work, personal life, or station-related issues?”
  • “Do you feel you have effective ways to manage your stress?”

Probing Questions:

  • “What do you usually do to unwind or decompress after a stressful day?”
  • “Are there particular situations or events that make you feel especially stressed?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Consistently high stress with no effective coping mechanisms.
2 Frequently stressed but occasionally uses coping strategies.
3 Moderate stress levels, usually managed with basic coping tools.
4 Low stress levels, generally well-managed.
5 Minimal stress; excellent coping mechanisms in place.

2. Feelings of Isolation

Questions:

  • “Do you feel connected to the people on the station, or do you feel isolated at times?”
  • “How often do you participate in social activities or interact with others outside of your immediate team?”
  • “Are there people on the station you feel comfortable reaching out to for support?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Have you found it difficult to form meaningful connections here?”
  • “Are there specific barriers preventing you from engaging socially?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Severe feelings of isolation, no meaningful connections.
2 Frequent loneliness with limited social interaction.
3 Moderate connection with others, occasional feelings of isolation.
4 Well-connected socially with minor feelings of loneliness.
5 Fully integrated and feels a strong sense of community.

3. Mental Fatigue and Burnout

Questions:

  • “Have you been feeling mentally drained or unfocused lately?”
  • “Do you find it difficult to stay motivated or engaged in your daily tasks?”
  • “How do you feel about your overall morale while living and working aboard the station?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Are there specific tasks or responsibilities that you find particularly exhausting?”
  • “Have you noticed changes in your mood or energy levels recently?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Severe mental fatigue or signs of burnout, struggling with focus.
2 Frequent mental exhaustion but still functioning.
3 Moderate fatigue with some impact on focus or morale.
4 Low levels of fatigue, mostly engaged and focused.
5 High energy and morale, no signs of burnout or mental fatigue.

Composite Score

Each individual is scored between 1 and 5 for each metric. A composite score can be calculated to summarise their overall mental health:

Composite Mental Health Score =
(Stress Levels Score + Feelings of Isolation Score + Mental Fatigue and Burnout Score) ÷ 3

Interpretation of Scores:

1–2.5: High concern; immediate intervention required.
2.6–3.5: Moderate concern; recommend support and adjustments.
3.6–5: Healthy mental health with minimal or no intervention needed.


4. Social Habits Metrics

1. Community Participation

Questions:

  • “How often do you attend station events, such as social gatherings or recreational activities?”
  • “How often do you visit Event Horizon and meet other people?”
  • “Do you enjoy participating in community events, or do you find them less appealing?”
  • “Are there events or activities you wish were offered on the station?”

Probing Questions:

  • “What kinds of events or activities do you find most enjoyable?”
  • “Have you faced any barriers—like time, interest, or workload—that prevent you from participating?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Rarely or never attends station events, avoids participation.
2 Attends infrequently, citing barriers like time or interest.
3 Participates occasionally but not consistently.
4 Frequently attends and engages in station activities.
5 Actively involved in community events and encourages others to join.

2. Interactions with Others

Questions:

  • “Do you feel comfortable interacting with people outside of your immediate team or department?”
  • “How often do you socialise with others on the station, whether casually or in a group setting?”
  • “Have you had any challenges connecting with people, either socially or professionally?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Are there specific groups or individuals you feel most comfortable with?”
  • “Do you think the mix of Starfleet personnel and civilians affects interactions?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Avoids interacting with others, reports feeling disconnected.
2 Limited interactions, mainly within their team or close circle.
3 Interacts moderately but prefers sticking to familiar groups.
4 Engages well with diverse groups and participates in social settings.
5 Actively builds relationships across all groups and facilitates connections.

3. Preferences for Solitary Activities

Questions:

  • “Do you tend to spend your free time alone, or do you prefer being around others?”
  • “How do you balance solitary activities with opportunities for social engagement?”
  • “Are there activities you do alone that you’d like to share with others?”

Probing Questions:

  • “What motivates you to choose solitary or group activities?”
  • “Are there times when you feel isolated, even if by choice?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Prefers complete isolation, rarely engages in group activities.
2 Frequently chooses solitary activities but shows mild interest in group options.
3 Balanced between solitary and group activities.
4 Enjoys group activities but also values alone time appropriately.
5 Highly sociable, prefers and thrives in group settings.

Composite Score

Each individual is scored between 1 and 5 for each metric. A composite score can be calculated to summarise their overall social habits:

Composite Social Habits Score =
(Community Participation Score + Interactions with Others Score + Preferences for Solitary Activities Score) ÷ 3

Interpretation of Scores:

1–2.5: Indicators of social isolation; targeted support needed.
2.6–3.5: Moderate social engagement; opportunities to enhance connections.
3.6–5: Healthy social habits; minimal or no intervention required.


5. Work-Life Balance Metrics

1. Workload Impact on Health

Questions:

  • “Do you feel your workload is manageable, or does it often feel overwhelming?”
  • “Have you noticed any physical or mental strain from your duties, such as fatigue or stress?”
  • “Do you feel you have enough support from your team or leadership to handle your responsibilities?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Are there particular tasks or situations that feel especially demanding?”
  • “Have you been able to take breaks or personal time when needed?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Severe workload stress causing significant physical or mental strain.
2 Frequently overwhelmed by workload but manages with difficulty.
3 Occasionally impacted by workload but can maintain balance.
4 Feels workload is mostly manageable with occasional challenges.
5 Consistently finds workload manageable and well-balanced.

2. Use of Free Time

Questions:

  • “How do you typically spend your free time aboard the station?”
  • “Do you feel you have enough time to relax or pursue hobbies?”
  • “Are there activities you enjoy but haven’t been able to make time for?”

Probing Questions:

  • “Do you find it challenging to disconnect from work during your downtime?”
  • “What kind of activities help you recharge or feel fulfilled?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Rarely engages in relaxing or fulfilling activities; no downtime.
2 Struggles to use free time effectively; limited engagement in hobbies.
3 Moderately uses downtime but could improve relaxation or hobbies.
4 Regularly engages in fulfilling activities during downtime.
5 Fully utilises free time for relaxation and personal growth.

3. Work-Life Satisfaction

Questions:

  • “Do you feel satisfied with the balance between your work and personal time?”
  • “Are there areas where you feel the balance could be improved?”
  • “Do you feel your work responsibilities leave you enough space to focus on your well-being?”

Probing Questions:

  • “What factors contribute most to your sense of balance or imbalance?”
  • “Have you discussed work-life balance concerns with your leadership or peers?”

Scoring:

Score Behaviour Observed
1 Extremely dissatisfied with work-life balance, leading to burnout.
2 Frequently dissatisfied but making some attempts to improve.
3 Moderately satisfied with occasional challenges.
4 Generally satisfied with work-life balance.
5 Fully satisfied, maintaining an excellent balance.

Composite Score

Each individual is scored between 1 and 5 for each metric. A composite score can be calculated to summarise their overall work-life balance:

Composite Work-Life Balance Score =
(Workload Impact on Health Score + Use of Free Time Score + Work-Life Satisfaction Score) ÷ 3

Interpretation of Scores:

1–2.5: Significant imbalance requiring immediate adjustments.
2.6–3.5: Moderate concerns; targeted support and recommendations needed.
3.6–5: Healthy balance; minimal or no intervention required.


Overall Health and Well-Being Score

Overall Score =
(Physical Health Score + Sleep Hygiene Score + Mental Health Score + Social Habits Score + Work-Life Balance Score) ÷ 5

Score Interpretation
1.0 – 1.5 Critical State: Severe concerns across multiple areas. Immediate, intensive intervention is required for both physical and mental well-being. The individual is struggling significantly with deep-space living.
1.51 – 2.0 High Risk: The participant shows consistent challenges in health and well-being, with significant issues in at least 2–3 categories. Targeted interventions are critical to stabilise their condition.
2.01 – 2.5 Concerning: While not critical, notable patterns of unhealthy habits and stress exist. The individual may cope intermittently but struggles to maintain balance. Moderate, focused intervention is needed.
2.51 – 3.0 Moderate: The individual displays a mix of positive and negative patterns. They may have healthy habits in some areas but face challenges in specific metrics (e.g., sleep or stress). Encouragement and small adjustments can improve outcomes.
3.01 – 3.5 Stable but needs refinement: The participant is mostly maintaining a reasonable standard of health and well-being but shows room for improvement in 1–2 areas. Continued support and proactive measures are recommended.
3.51 – 4.0 Healthy Patterns: The individual is generally doing well with only minor areas of improvement. They exhibit good self-awareness and management of health, social habits, and work-life balance.
4.01 – 4.5 Thriving: A strong balance in most areas, with evidence of excellent habits and stress management. The participant demonstrates resilience and adaptability to station life. Occasional support may help sustain these habits.
4.51 – 5.0 Exemplary: Exceptional health, social integration, and balance. The participant thrives in the deep-space environment and serves as a model for others. Minimal, if any, intervention required.

OOC OOC Tracking Sheet

[color=red]Critical[/color]
[color=orangered]High Risk[/color]
[color=orange]Concerning[/color]
[color=gold]Moderate[/color]
[color=yellowgreen]Stable[/color]
[color=darkgreen]Healthy[/color]
[color=green]Thriving[/color]
[color=aqua]Exemplary[/color]
4 Likes

Results

To ensure confidentiality, all patients have been assigned a random, unique, personal identifier.

Patient Name Department Overall Score Physical Health Score Sleep Hygiene Score Mental Health Score Social Habits Score Work-Life Balance Score
Patient 001 Medical 3.67 - Healthy 4.0 3.3 3.7 3.0 4.3
Patient 209 Civilian 3.73 - Healthy 4.3 3.3 4.0 3.3 3.7

OOC Tooltip information is for OOC purposes only.

4 Likes