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Mental Health for Pilots & Aviation Workers

Commercial pilots, military pilots, private pilots, air traffic controllers. Real stats, specific resources, and guidance written for the particular culture of this profession — not generic advice.

The numbers
Pilots historically underreport mental health issues due to FAA medical fears. One-third of airline pilots have experienced significant depression; 4% report suicidal ideation.
~800K pilots + many more aviation workers in the US

Why mental health looks different here

FAA medical certification is the big issue. Historically, disclosing mental health treatment could ground you indefinitely. FAA has recently reformed (2024) — most SSRIs are now allowed with monitoring.

Profession-specific resources

Built for your job. Not generic EAP. These know the culture.

Pilots Mental Health Campaign
Advocacy + resources specifically for FAA medical and mental health.
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HIMS Program (AME directed)
Aviation Medical Examiner program for substance use + depression recovery + return to flying.
Open →
Air Line Pilots Association EAP
Union EAP for ALPA members — confidential.
Open →

Most common issues in pilots

Based on prevalence data for this profession. Each links to a specific resource on Typical Male.

Licensure / fitness-for-duty — what's real and what's myth

FAA medical is the primary barrier. Work with an AME familiar with HIMS and the SSRI allowance protocol. Do NOT stop medication without consulting your AME — that creates bigger issues.

Free tool
Not sure what's going on?

The PHQ-9 + GAD-7 screeners your doctor uses. Private. Printable for your appointment. Tracks over time.

Take the PHQ-9 →