If you’re a pilot or planning to become one, your mental health is just as important as your flying skills. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has a special program called HIMS (Human Intervention Motivation Study). It helps pilots who are dealing with mental health or substance use issues return to flying safely.
A key part of this program is seeing a FAA HIMS psychiatrist. These are doctors trained and approved by the FAA to work with pilots. In this article, we will look at five clear reasons why seeing a FAA HIMS psychiatrist could be the right move for you.Â
1. Specialized Help for Pilots
FAA HIMS psychiatrists understand the unique pressures pilots face. Unlike regular psychiatrists, they are trained to work with people in aviation. This means they know about the stress of flying, long hours, and the need to stay alert and focused.
They are also familiar with FAA rules and know what it takes to help pilots keep or get back their medical certification. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or alcohol problems, a HIMS psychiatrist can guide you in a way that fits your career needs.Â
2. Required for Medical Certification
If you’ve been grounded due to mental health concerns or substance use, the FAA may require you to see a HIMS psychiatrist. This is often the only way to regain your medical certificate, which allows you to fly again.
The FAA HIMS Psychiatrist will work closely with you; provide treatment if needed, and send progress reports to the FAA. Their opinion carries weight in the FAA’s final decision.Â
3. Confidential and Supportive Care
Many pilots worry about losing their job or reputation if they seek help. But HIMS psychiatrists are there to support, not punish. The process is confidential and focused on helping you get better, not getting you in trouble.
These doctors want you to succeed, and they understand how important your career is to you. They work with your airline, if needed, and help you stay on track through counseling, check-ins, and sometimes drug or alcohol monitoring.Â
4. Early Help Prevents Bigger Problems
Seeing a HIMS psychiatrist early—before things get worse—can help you avoid major career setbacks. Many pilots wait too long to ask for help, thinking things will get better on their own. But untreated stress, depression, or substance use can get worse fast.
Getting help early shows that you’re responsible and care about safety. In fact, proactive pilots are more likely to recover quickly and keep their flying status.Â
5. Part of a Proven Program
The HIMS program has been around for decades and has helped thousands of pilots return to flying. It has a strong success rate. Seeing a HIMS psychiatrist is one of the first steps in this program. They help build a plan for recovery and make sure you’re meeting all FAA requirements.
Their support doesn’t end after one visit—they stay involved throughout your journey, helping you stay healthy and fly safely.Â
Conclusion
If you’re a pilot facing mental health or substance challenges, seeing a FAA HIMS psychiatrist can be one of the best decisions you make. These professionals understand your world and are here to help—not judge. Whether it’s for certification, support, or simply someone to talk to who gets it, a HIMS psychiatrist can help you keep your wings and fly with confidence.
