Airline Crew Mental Health Resources

Jumpseat Therapy mental health resources for airline crew

Life in the air is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Irregular schedules, time zones, long stretches away from home, and difficult passengers all take a toll. Jumpseat Therapy was born out of that reality — founded by a flight attendant who found a healthier way to cope — and part of our mission is to help fellow crew find support when they need it. If you're struggling, you're not alone, and reaching out is a sign of strength.

If you need help right now

If you or someone you know is in crisis or emotional distress, free and confidential help is available 24/7:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 any time, day or night. Free, confidential, and available 24/7. (Veterans can press 1.)
  • SAMHSA National Helpline — call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential treatment referrals and information for mental health and substance use, 24/7, in English and Spanish.

If there is an immediate danger to life, please call 911 or your local emergency number.

Ongoing support for aviation crew

For longer-term support tailored to people in the airline industry:

  • AFA-CWA offers a confidential Employee Assistance Program that can help with sobriety, substance use, and mental health — anonymously.
  • Supportiv connects you to a small, professionally moderated group chat of people with shared lived experience — synchronous, anonymous, and available whenever you need it.

It's also worth checking whether your own airline or union offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or peer support network — many do, and they exist for exactly this.

Small habits that help between flights

Professional support is the foundation, but small daily habits can make the hard days a little easier too. Protecting your sleep, moving your body, staying connected to people who matter, and giving your mind something calm to focus on all help build resilience over time.

For our founder, that calm focus came from cross stitch — a quiet, portable hobby that fit into layovers and airport sits and offered a healthier way to unwind. You can read her story on our about page. If you'd like to try it yourself, our beginner cross stitch kits are travel-friendly and easy to pick up, with no experience needed. It isn't a substitute for real support, but for some people it's one small, steadying part of the day.

Whatever you're carrying, there are people and resources ready to help make the skies a little brighter. Take care of yourself out there. 💙