Resource Hub
A curated collection of aviation-specific mental health, wellness, and certification resources — available any time, whether or not you're in active contact with a peer supporter.
If You Need Help Right Now
If you or someone you know is in crisis, reach out immediately. These resources are available 24/7 and are not affiliated with the FAA certification process.
Call or Text 988
Free, confidential emotional support for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Also a resource for friends and family supporting someone in need.
Visit 988lifeline.org →Education and research on suicide prevention, including how to recognize warning signs and how to help a friend or colleague who may be struggling.
Visit afsp.org →Certification & Regulatory
Understanding how mental health reporting actually works — and how to protect your certificate — is one of the biggest barriers to instructors seeking help. Start here.
The FAA's overview of pilot mental health policy, including the list of conditionally acceptable antidepressants and the agency's stated commitment to reducing stigma around seeking treatment.
Visit faa.gov →The reference AMEs use to make certification decisions — useful for understanding what's actually reportable and how therapy or counseling is evaluated during your medical exam.
Visit faa.gov →Addresses common misconceptions about mental health reporting — including the myth that seeking care automatically grounds you. Direct from the FAA's Office of Aerospace Medicine.
Visit faa.gov →Legal and medical certification support for pilots — a strong resource if you're worried about your medical, navigating FAA paperwork, or have legal questions about disclosure.
Visit aopa.org →Mental Health
Screening tools, treatment guidance, and aviation-specific counseling resources for anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Covers what's actually reportable to the FAA — including when counseling (marriage, family, individual) needs to be disclosed, and how antidepressants factor into special issuance.
Visit aviationmedicine.com →Free, confidential screening tools for depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress — a good starting point if you're wondering whether it's time to talk to a professional.
Visit mhanational.org →Evidence-based coping skills, breathing techniques, and a directory to help you find a qualified mental health professional in your area.
Visit adaa.org →Wellness
Physical wellness — nutrition, sleep, and workload management — is closely tied to mental resilience, especially for instructors managing irregular schedules.
Evidence-based nutrition guidance from registered dietitian professionals, including a "find an expert" directory.
Visit eatright.org →Guidance on fatigue management, shift-work adjustment, sleep hygiene, and circadian rhythm — especially relevant for instructors flying variable schedules.
Visit sleepfoundation.org →A free training from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (part of the CDC) focused on recognizing and preventing workplace burnout.
Visit cdc.gov →The Resource Hub is provided for general informational purposes only. Links to third-party websites and organizations are offered for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement, partnership, or affiliation with The CFI Collective unless explicitly stated. We do not control, and are not responsible for, the content, accuracy, availability, or privacy practices of any external site.
Nothing on this page constitutes medical, psychological, legal, or financial advice, and it is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified physician, mental health professional, attorney, or Aviation Medical Examiner. If you are experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately.
The CFI Collective makes no representations or warranties regarding the outcomes of using any resource listed here, including with respect to FAA medical certification. Decisions about disclosure, treatment, and certification should always be made in consultation with a licensed Aviation Medical Examiner or qualified attorney familiar with FAA processes.