16 Dec 2016

High global rates of unreported pilot depression - study

3:19 pm on 16 December 2016

A new study says thousands of airline passengers are being flown by depressed or suicidal pilots.

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Photo: 123.rf

The Harvard University study, based on a survey of over 1800 pilots from more than 50 countries, showed more than 12 percent of them met the criteria for clinical depression.

Of those, 75 admitted recently having suicidal thoughts, while 10 felt they would be "better off dead".

Most aviation authorities rely on pilots to report on their own mental health.

But lead researcher Joseph Allen said in doing so they risked harming their career, and there should be mandatory psychological testing and mental health support.

"It's obviously in all of our interests, everybody's interests, that we identify people that need help and get them the help they need," he said.

"Flying is the safest form of transport - this study does nothing to change that.

"What is surprising is that the official reporting channels under-report because of this fear of repercussions to their careers."

That self-reporting system also applies in New Zealand, but Airline Pilots' Association welfare officer Herwin Bongers said psychological testing and mental health support was not necessary.

"In the past, yes, I can say that there's been some problems where an issue's been dealt with later on in the piece," he said.

"Nowadays we've got good insurances, so there's not a lot of concern about loss of income.

"As long as these things are handled correctly and holistically for all those involved then the outcomes are on the whole a positive outcome."

Where to get help:

Lifeline: 0800 543 354

Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.

Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7)

Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)

Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz

What's Up: online chat (7pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 children's helpline (1pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-10pm weekends)

Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)

Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254

Healthline: 0800 611 116

Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.