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 frequently hide mental health struggles like depression and anxiety due to significant fear of losing their FAA medical certification and, consequently, their careers.
Current FAA regulations are a major barrier, with strict disclosure requirements and a very limited list of approved medications for mental health conditions, pushing pilots to avoid seeking necessary care.
The aviation industry is beginning to address this by developing confidential peer support programs, airline-based wellness initiatives, and university student pilot support to destigmatize mental health and encourage pilots to seek help, emphasizing that career loss for seeking care is rare.

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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.”