Oh yes, was also shown on the typerating course.
Some truth in it, but actually by now, the Autopilot has an emergency function, a button pressed twice will stabilise the helicopter with upper modis heading, ALT and speed, so if you get really disorientated, it will save your butt - unless you fly into something.
But, I think you have to admit, the work changed and we have to adopt.
From flyingskills to System Manager. We still need flyingskills, but most of the time now we have to organize and manage systems. And if you do it by time you now have plenty of time to enjoy the view!
With altering directions from ATC, hey, they are there to help you, nothing easier than saying: unable to comply, give me an inital heading and so on.
Many pilots take everything from ATC as an order - but you can always inform them about your situation, request a different solution!!!!