A pilot taking SSRI medication for GAD (general anxiety disorder), and /or OCD (common amongst the aviation fraternity) is prohibited from flying under the South African CAA and the US FAA (with conditions), my question is…
- Is this not out-of-date thinking considering the number of Com pilots globally (ATP, Fixed and Rotor) who are apparently doing so, undiagnosed, and in the opinion of many Aviation Medical Professionals, are better pilots on meds than what they would be off meds?
- Does anyone know of any efficacious alternative to SSRI which is acceptable?
- Considering the stress levels of global aviation, and our modern propensity for acceptance of chemical intervention, are there any indications that this issue is receiving due attention and investigation?
- The distinction between chemical balance and “mind altering” is understood and considered.