Hey there, thanks for sharing your story. It's brave of you to open up about your journey with mental health while pursuing a flying career. Many pilots and trainees face similar challenges, so you're definitely not alone in this. First off, congrats on getting your Class 2 medical and working towards that Class 1. That's a huge accomplishment, especially considering the hurdles you've faced. It's clear you've got a genuine passion for flying that's persisted since your PPL days.
Your concerns about maintaining mental health while training and throughout your career are totally valid. The pressure can be intense, and it's crucial to have good coping strategies in place. Some things that have helped me and other pilots I know:
- Building a support network of fellow pilots who understand the unique stresses of the job
- Regular exercise and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga
- Setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories along the way
- Being proactive about work-life balance, even during training
- Finding a therapist who understands aviation industry pressures (some specialize in this)
Regarding your worry about seeking help and potentially jeopardizing your medical status - it's a common concern. However, it's generally better to address issues proactively rather than letting them build up. Many pilots work with mental health professionals discreetly to maintain their wellbeing without it affecting their medical certification. Your life experience and resilience in overcoming past challenges could actually be an asset in your flying career. At 46, you bring maturity and perspective that younger pilots might not have. Keep pushing forward with your CPL and ATPL studies. Stay focused on your goals, but also be kind to yourself along the way. This career change is a marathon, not a sprint. Wishing you all the best in your aviation journey. Keep us posted on how things go!