I don't freak out anymore but I remember a time a few years ago when I almost vomited from the volatility. I remember going through some self reflection afterwards and coming out the other side a better investor.
So yes, I think it does take time for people to learn not to freak out and that experience is different for everyone. Presumably some people never get over it.
That said, we can't assume what's happening in this persons life. Maybe they're dying or died. Maybe they're buying houses for their kids. Who knows?
And if you think about it, this is healthy for the network. These 500 BTC will hopefully end up in the hands of 500 or 5000 new people.