The PTSD No One Talks About
How Unresolved Emergencies and Close Calls stay in Your System.
Let’s imagine a scenario: You're in the cockpit, and an engine sputters or you're in the cabin, and sudden, violent turbulence sends shockwaves down the passengers’ spine or you're in the control tower, guiding two converging Aircraft, your voice calm but your heart pounding a frantic rhythm. In that moment, your training kicks in. You react. You mitigate. You survive. Sounds like a happy ending right?
Tell me honestly, what happens after? The emergency is over. The "all clear" is given. And yet, for many of you in the Aviation industry , those moments don't simply dissipate into the Air they linger and replay in your mind continuously, sometimes manifesting as a sudden jolt that makes you wake up in the middle of the night or a flash of an image the scared passengers, or a racing heart when a similar scenario is mentioned. These are the unresolved echoes, the close calls that stay in your system, subtly eroding your sense of peace and security.
You are trained to be resilient and to compartmentalize these issues along with your work life.. But human beings aren't machines. These experiences, especially when they involve a genuine threat to life or safety, can leave an indelible mark. It's not about being weak,it's about being human and you must realize you’re not alone. Look around, everyone goes through something similar everyday.
But why is this phenomenon not spoken about often? Why is there a stigma around it? Let’s break it down.
There is a culture of invincibility prevalent in the Aviation industry which often fosters unwavering confidence and emotional stoicism among the employees. Admitting vulnerability can feel like admitting a weakness, especially in a profession where absolute competence is paramount.
Up next, is the fear of ramifications on a bigger scale, a genuine fear that acknowledging mental health struggles could impact one's career, medical certification, or even security clearances.For a long time, the focus has been on physical safety and technical proficiency, with mental well-being often an afterthought.
It's time to shift the narrative. It's time to acknowledge that the human element in Aviation is not just about skill and precision, but also about emotional resilience and mental well-being.
It’s high time you focus on the small things that can help you keep grounded This is a 3 step formula, which you can do use anywhere- either before a flight, during a break or after hours. Your wish!
Step 1- Settle down and Breathe
It’s simple,sit down, take a deep breath through your nose(count to 4). Let your shoulders drop.
Hold on for 2 seconds and breathe out(count to 6)
Repeat this 3-4 times.
Step 2- Grounding
Quietly name:
5 things you can see
4 things you can feel
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you’re grateful for
And you’ll see magic unfold….all the burden that you were carrying around, somehow seems lighter. Don’t believe me? Try it out and experience the bliss which goes beyond words!
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