Can you be bipolar and be a pilot?


Can you be bipolar and be a pilot? Disqualifying by law Bipolar Disorder is one of the federally mandated disqualifying medical conditions by 14 CFR 67. The primary reason is because of the significant risk of suicide in people with bipolar disorder compared to the general population.


What antidepressants does the FAA allow?

Can Pilots Take Antidepressants?
  • The SSRI pathway only allows consideration for pilots who take one of four SSRIS: fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), or sertraline (Zoloft). ...
  • Other antidepressants do not have a Special Issuance pathway.


Can I be a pilot with mental health?

How the FAA is Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health, Help Pilots Receive Care. The FAA encourages pilots to seek help if they have a mental health condition since most, if treated, do not disqualify a pilot from flying.


What mental illnesses disqualify you from being a pilot?

However, certain medical conditions such as a psychosis, bipolar disorder and some types of personality disorder automatically disqualify a pilot from obtaining an FAA medical certificate. Former FAA Administrator Steve Dickson addressed pilot mental health at the University of North Dakota Mental Health Summit.


What are the long term effects of being a pilot?

One of the most common risks associated with being a pilot is the physical and mental strain. Pilots must remain alert and focused for long periods of time, often in difficult circumstances. This can lead to fatigue and stress, both of which can have a negative impact on their performance and safety.


Do pilots have to pass a psych test?

Aviation Medical Examiners are trained to determine the pilot's mental health and fitness to fly. Before this medical exam, pilots are required to report any health professional visits during the previous three years, all medications being taken, and other medical history on their medical application form.


Can pilots take CBD?

For pilots, avoidance is recommended when it comes to any CBD products. It's helpful to become aware of other common CBD terminology like “full or broad spectrum” and read product labels carefully, including the ingredients.


Can I be a pilot with ADHD?

Due to the risks to flight safety posed by ADHD, regulatory authorities worldwide consider ADHD a disqualifying condition for pilots. Unfortunately, pilots sometimes fail to disclose ADHD to their Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).


How many pilots suffer from mental illness?

The team conducted a survey of more than 1,000 pilots worldwide in 2019 and found that 18% had moderate depression and 80% moderate burnout.