How to Recognise When You're Not Coping in Aviation
Life in the aviation industry can be thrilling, fast-paced, and filled with pride. But for many working behind the uniform or headset, there can also be moments of silence, self-doubt, and strain that aren’t easy to name or share. Whether you're flying, supporting flights from the ground, or in training, it can be difficult to spot when you're not coping – especially when you're trained to keep calm and carry on.
This blog is here to help you recognise the quieter warning signs and take steps before things reach crisis point.
1. You Feel Constantly Tired, Even After Rest Fatigue is a given in aviation. But if sleep no longer feels restorative, and you're waking up dreading the day ahead, it might be more than just long hours. Burnout can mimic exhaustion, and the two are easily confused.
2. You Avoid Social Situations or Conversations When we’re not coping, even small talk can feel overwhelming. You might catch yourself ignoring calls, skipping crew meals, or becoming distant with loved ones.
3. You're Using Quick Fixes to Cope Increased reliance on alcohol, energy drinks, medications, or other habits might be masking deeper stress. If you're finding it harder to regulate emotions without something external, it's worth paying attention.
4. You’re Easily Irritated or Emotionally Flat Mood swings, low patience, or feeling emotionally numb can all be signs of strain. Many aviation professionals have to wear a calm exterior – but inside, things may feel very different.
5. You’ve Lost Interest in Things You Usually Enjoy Whether it's flying, connecting with colleagues, or personal hobbies, burnout often strips us of enthusiasm. If joy has taken a back seat, it's time to check in.
6. You Keep Telling Yourself to Just Push Through Resilience is important, but when it turns into silence and self-denial, it can lead to deeper issues. "I should be able to cope" is a red flag in disguise.
So What Can You Do?
The first step is simply noticing. Once you’ve done that, here are some suggestions:
Talk to someone you trust. It doesn’t need to be formal – just start the conversation.
Try a quiz. Our quick self-assessment tools are a safe, anonymous way to reflect on where you are.
Book a discovery call. I offer a free, no-pressure 30-minute call to explore what support might look like for you.
Remember you're not alone. Struggling doesn’t mean failing – it means you're human, in a high-pressure environment.
Curious to know where you stand? Take our anonymous Aviation Wellbeing Quiz or book a private Discovery Call with me today.