Psychiatric disability of Air Force fliers

Case reports of psychiatric disorders in flying personnel tend to be reported in diagnostic clusters. When viewed separately, these reports suggest specific patterns. When looked at collectively, psychiatric disorders in military aviators follow no specific pattern. A 5-year review of psychiatric evaluations done at the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine reveals a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses. Although aviators with psychiatric disabilities are seldom seen, a greater proportion of this group will be grounded compared to other medical referrals. In selected cases, psychiatric treatment is highly successful. In future work, greater emphasis should be given to the identification of life stress events for the purpose of deterrence, in addition to rehabilitation through treatment.