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 struggles due to a pervasive fear of losing their FAA medical certificate and career, despite evidence suggesting this outcome is rare and often exaggerated.
Current FAA regulations, which are restrictive regarding mental health conditions and approved medications, contribute significantly to pilots' reluctance to seek necessary care.
The aviation industry, including airlines, peer support organizations, and flight training universities, is actively working to establish confidential support systems and destigmatize mental health to encourage pilots to seek help.

See a mistake? Contact us.

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.”