Chronic Terra Siderans — Earth-sickness Syndrome
Earth designation: Chronic Earth Sickness
Chronic presentation of Earth Sickness in lunar residents. A complex psychological syndrome unique to lunar residents, characterized by profound longing for Earth, its ecosystems, and human social connections. Unlike homesickness, Earth-sickness involves the loss of an entire planet — its smells, weather, gravity, horizon, and natural light. The psychologic...
Lunar Risk Factors
Duration of lunar residence. Limited communication bandwidth with loved ones. Inability to return to Earth on personal decision. Habitat with no Earth view. Loss of connection to Earth's natural rhythms. Family events occurring without resident's presence.
Symptoms
Persistent sadness focused on Earth and lost connections. Vivid dreams of Earth. Difficulty accepting lunar environment as "home." Emotional dysregulation around Earth communication times. Decreased engagement with habitat community.
Lunar Presentation
Distinctive from depression by its focus on a specific lost object (Earth) rather than generalized anhedonia. "Earth window" — lunar habitats with Earth-visible viewports report lower Earth-sickness rates. "Protocol 42 for Wellbeing" — the informal lunar mental health check-in system developed in the Artemis Quarter.
Diagnosis
Structured interview using the Lunar Adaptation Assessment Scale. Distinguish from major depression, adjustment disorder. Timeline of symptoms relative to last Earth view, family communications.
Treatment
Supportive psychotherapy, group therapy with fellow residents, scheduled high-quality Earth communications, VR Earth environments, meaningful lunar community engagement.
Lunar Medical Bay Protocol
Priority communication scheduling (bandwidth guarantee from habitat admin). VR Earth environments (multiple biome simulations). Group "Earth story" sharing sessions. Meaningful role in habitat community. Psychological support group facilitation (peer counselors trained in lunar psychology). Grokking practice — deep acceptance mindfulness based on the Heinlein tradition, adapted as a moon-specific contemplative therapy. Antidepressants if criteria for major depression met.
Evacuation Criteria
Active suicidal ideation with plan. Severe depression preventing function. Acute psychosis.
Prevention
Pre-mission psychological screening and preparation. Earth-view habitat allocation. Communication priority scheduling. Strong lunar community culture. Rotating counselor availability.