Why Pilots Don't Want To Talk About Mental Health

Pilots get anxiety and depression just like many of the rest of us do, but they seem less likely to seek support and treatment. Why? How can we change it?

[Illustration by Amy Jo Sledge]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots often conceal mental health issues like anxiety and depression due to fear of losing their FAA medical certificate and career, leading to high rates of healthcare avoidance.
FAA regulations are restrictive regarding mental health, allowing only a few specific medications for depression and automatically disqualifying certain conditions, creating barriers to treatment.
The aviation industry, including major airlines and universities, is increasingly developing confidential peer support programs and wellness initiatives to destigmatize mental health and offer safer avenues for pilots to seek help.
Experts and peer support advocates emphasize that seeking mental health care is crucial for overall well-being and safety, and that losing one's medical certificate as a result is a rare outcome often exaggerated by industry rumors.

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An airline captain flies long-haul on heavy equipment for an international carrier. He’s at the top of his game—both professionally and personally, with a young family and a successful side business that keeps him busy and fulfilled even on his days off.

“Pilots believe that being vulnerable, and sharing feelings or struggles, such as anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, would be at best humiliating or embarrassing, and, at worst, the end of their flying career.”