At the Flight School Association of North America (FSANA) Conference, one issue was brought up repeatedly: Pilots want to talk about mental health, but they’re afraid of what happens next. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, or outdated ADHD diagnoses, pilots are facing an uncertain and often frustrating process when it comes to protecting their FAA medical.
Why More Pilots Are Speaking Up
Flight instructors, flight school owners, and DPEs are seeing more students than ever asking about mental health—a stark contrast to past generations where the topic was rarely discussed.
Rising Awareness, Rising Concerns: Younger pilots, who grew up in an era of normalizing mental health conversations, are more likely to seek help—but they don’t always realize the consequences of self-disclosure on their medical certification.
ADHD Diagnoses and the FAA’s Lengthy Review Process: Many students diagnosed in childhood are now facing unexpected hurdles when applying for their medical, even if they’ve been symptom-free for years. The FAA often requires neuropsychological testing—a process that can take months or even years and cost thousands of dollars.
What You Need to Know Before You Disclose
1. The FAA’s Mental Health Review Process is Slow and Expensive
- Pilots who disclose past ADHD, anxiety, or depression often face long wait times for evaluation.
- The process can take 6 to 12 months (or longer) and isn’t covered by insurance.
2. Not Every Mental Health Concern Needs to Be Medically Reported
- Everyday stress, training anxiety, or occasional struggles don’t require disclosure.
- Pilots should seek non-reportable support first (e.g., coaching, peer support).
3. Getting Evaluated Without FAA Involvement is Key
- If you suspect a misdiagnosis (especially ADHD), get re-evaluated before applying for a medical.
- Do not list a diagnosis unless you have official, recent documentation confirming it’s still active.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Career?
The FSANA discussions made one thing clear: Pilots need better options for stress management before issues escalate into a medical concern.
✅ Find Medically Non-Reportable Support: Coaching, counseling (outside of FAA involvement), and peer groups provide help without jeopardizing your medical.
✅ Stay Informed Before Disclosing: Pilots need clear guidance on what actually needs to be reported—and what doesn’t.
✅ Advocate for Policy Change: The FAA’s process is outdated and doesn’t account for modern mental-health care. The aviation industry must work toward solutions that allow pilots to seek help without fear.
Final Thoughts
Mental health conversations in aviation are increasing, but until policy catches up, pilots are left with limited options. Protecting your career means knowing when to seek help, where to go, and how to navigate the system effectively.
If you’re struggling with stress or uncertainty around your medical, know that you’re not alone. There are confidential, non-reportable options available—including stress management coaching that helps pilots build resilience while staying in control of their future.
Let’s keep the conversation going. What are your thoughts on the FAA’s current mental health policies? Have you or someone you know faced unnecessary roadblocks due to past diagnoses?
Blue skies and happy landings,
Shannon Torres, M.Ed.
Owner & Founder of Aviation Conversations
Author Shannon Torres founded Aviation Conversations, a coaching business tailored specifically for pilots who seek to harmonize personal well-being, stress management, and career success from a space that is safe and considered medically non-reportable.
