On May 11, while many rushed outside with joy after months of confinement, others gazed longingly out the window, reluctant to rejoin the world. This emotional response, known as "cabin syndrome" or "snail syndrome," has become especially relevant today.
According to a YouGov poll conducted for Société magazine, 29% of French people preferred to extend their confinement. Notably, younger adults led this trend: 38% of 18-24 year olds wanted to stay home, compared to just 18% of those aged 45-54. For two-thirds (67%) of respondents, the fear of the virus drove this choice, while a quarter simply enjoyed the extended time indoors.
This phenomenon was first documented in 1900 among U.S. gold diggers who, after months in isolated cabins, panicked at the prospect of returning to civilization. Lighthouse keepers have also experienced it historically.
Beyond the core fear of the outside world, cabin syndrome often involves persistent fatigue, numbness in the limbs, morning grogginess, and a strong urge for daytime naps.
Emotionally, those affected grapple with sadness, fear, anxiety, and frustration—feelings that reinforce the desire to retreat and remain in their "cabin."
Psychologists view this withdrawal as a normal adjustment phase. "It's akin to grieving: we won't immediately return to our pre-lockdown lives, and many struggle to envision this new post-lockdown reality," explained psychologist Hélène Romana on LCI. If symptoms linger, professional support is advised.
