Most people are used to hearing news about air traffic controllers primarily in regards to safely coordinating airline and aircraft movements. But in recent months, a shocking trend has been revealed, as cases of air traffic controllers’ self-harm and suicide increase across the globe. This article will explore the potential cause of these incidents, and what can be done to improve the wellbeing of air traffic controllers.
1. The Profound Stress of Aviation
Being an air marshal requires nerves of steel. There is no second chance for a split decision when life or death is present. The pressure of air travel facilitates a high alert environment that leaves no room for errors. Yet there are those who dedicate their lives towards regulating these possible dangers.
The stress of aviation starts long before the plane takes off. Charged with the responsibility to keep harm at bay, air marshals are pushed into a heightened state of awareness. This is triggered by preparing for every malevolent undertaking that could ensue.
- The threat of hijackers
- The risk of a bomb
- The possibility of firearms
- The scope of drug smuggling
Air marshals must remain vigilant throughout the flight, with all senses honed in on their immediate vicinity. Not a movement goes unnoticed and mental notes of suspicious activity are made. Monitoring passengers and crew alike, should an event unfold that threatens the safety of their post, quick action is usually the only saving grace.
From start to finish, a single trip can be filled with unforeseen events. Air marshals must never get complacent if they hope to keep order in the skies. This stress of aviation is an ever-present part of any flight.
2. Investigating Suicide among Air Traffic Controllers
We can all agree that air traffic controllers deal with a highly pressurized and stressful job. Tragically, this intense lifestyle can lead to an elevated suicide rate among the community.
The aviation industry is driven by inflexible schedules, staggering workloads, and perpetual mental fatigue. One study concluded that air traffic controllers reported a higher rate of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, compared to the general population.
In an effort to better understand the behavioral link between suicide and the profession, researchers are actively examining the factors that are responsible for the unsettling rate. One theory suggests that due to long working hours, lack of rest and ever-increasing pressure, some air traffic controllers may be pushed to the brink.
Possible solutions to this global issue include:
- Provide sources of emotional support – Round-the-clock mental health counselors who can provide assurance and sympathy to air traffic controllers.
- Developing a safety culture – Instilling a culture of well-being within the profession, allowing employees to openly express their worries and concerns, without the fear of judgement.
- Alter scheduling – Alternating shifts to reduce the effects of fatigue and provide more opportunities for rest.
In the interests of both safety and welfare, the aviation industry is duty-bound to reduce the prevalence of suicide among air traffic controllers.
3. The Risk of Mental Fatigue in ATC
Having the mental agility to stay alert and process data quickly is one of the most important aspects of successful air traffic control. Keep in mind though, no two days are the same; from hours of peace and quiet, to days of intense concentration and work, mental fatigue is always a looming threat.
Mental fatigue is a serious issue for air traffic controllers, ushering in a variety of problems such as:
- Reduction in capacity to analyze, decide, and act quickly
- Reduced accuracy in decision-making and judgement capability
- A lower level of creativity
- A decrease in overall effectiveness
As work increases throughout the day, the risk of mental fatigue increases. This causes controllers to become overwhelmed and unable to make correct decisions. In some cases, this can lead to more serious errors or even catastrophic accidents.
How to Manage Mental Fatigue Controllers must take steps to counter the impacts of mental fatigue. Tactics like
- Early task delegation
- Periodic stress management
- Adequate rest during breaks
- Regular meals with balanced diets
are all important considerations to minimize the risks of mental fatigue. It’s important for controllers to be aware of the physical and psychological symptoms that come from fatigue and to get adequate rests when needed.
4. The Emotional Weight of Decision-Making
Decision-Making involves emotion, and we can’t escape it – it is part of our well-being. It’s important to identify and manage our feelings related to tough decisions. Without major consequence, we are eager to make decisions quickly but overthinking it is just as dangerous, as it could lead to too much ambivalence and inaction.
The task of anticipating possible outcomes, evaluating risks, and weighing the effects of an action can be mentally taxing. When we make decisions, we’re also reminded of our power to shape our lives, which can be overwhelming. Having to make a difficult decision, and coming up with the most suitable response can appears too demanding for the mind.
At times, it can feel like a burden, but learning to recognize these feelings and adjust our mindset accordingly is essential for making effective decisions in life. As much as we need to be in control, we need to remind ourselves that uncertainty is inevitable and mistakes may happen.
When confronted with a difficult decision, keep in mind the following to stay mentally organized:
- Identify your feelings
- Put things into perspective
- Make a timeline for choosing a response
- Take a few moments to evaluate the results
Decision-making is a skill that should be honed over time, so you can approach the task with the right attitude and the right mindset. It takes practice, but knowing you are equipped to handle should make it easier.
5. Examining the Impact of External Stresses
More and more companies are starting to recognize the impact of external stresses on their operations and the potential risks involved. Considerations must be made to evaluate the risks, prioritize and address areas of most importance. Understanding the impacts external factors can have can help to build a robust and well-rounded strategy to tackle anything that presents itself.
How Organizations Experience External Stresses
External stresses can range from a simple delayed shipment to global economic decline and natural catastrophes. It’s important to be aware of the fact that external stressors can have a huge effect on organizations. These can severely limit the options available to the organization, and can force significant changes to the operations.
Possible Steps to take to Limit Risk
- Continuously monitoring the external environment and keeping up to date with any changes taking place.
- Identifying key stakeholders and establishing communication methods.
- Establishing risk responses and contingency plans for unexpected situations.
- Developing an agile approach to problem-solving provides customers with a smoother experience.
Creating a Plan of Action
Organizations should assess the impact of the external environment and take measures to guard against the risks presented. Careful consideration should be given to decision making and proactive plans developed in case of an interruption or unexpected event. This type of forward-thinking strategy can help organizations avoid the negative implications of external sources.
6. Seeking Solutions to Prevent Aviation Suicides
As worrisome as the idea of an aviation suicide may sound, the situation has become a worrying reality which needs to be addressed promptly. Here are some practical measures we can take to prevent aviation suicides:
- Educate: Aviation personnel and airlines should be encouraged to design awareness programs and educate the personnel about the causes of depression, suicide warning signs, and how to handle potential suicidal hijackers. Such knowledge could help prevent incidents from escalating.
- Heightened security: Airlines can also adopt stricter security protocols which should include enhanced screening of passengers and security personnel being able to intervene during crisis situations.
- Enhanced communication: One of the critical aspects of any hijacking is the communication between the hijacker and the authorities. Airports and airlines should have proper systems in place to ensure efficient communication and faster resolution of the situation.
- Informative signs: Clear signage at airports can help to identify potential suicidal passengers and inform them of available help.
Physical barriers: No matter how much security is heightened, it could still be possible for a suicidal person to board the plane. Installing protective barriers with the help of government or private contractors to segment the cockpit area could help protect the pilot.
Aviation psychology: Finally, providing psychological support to aviation personnel on a regular basis can help prevent a hijacking or other aviation crisis in the first place. Counseling should be regularly conducted and provided to all airlines personnel, including pilots and flight attendants.
These are just a few of the measures that should be taken to help prevent aviation suicides. All aviation stakeholders should practice caution to ensure the safety of their personnel and passengers.
7. Making Air Travel Safer for all Involved
It’s no secret that air travel can be risky. In order to make the skies a safer place for passengers and crew, aviation authorities around the world are continuously developing strategies to reduce the risks associated with air travel.
One of the most effective methods to make air travel safer is to create stringent standards for maintenance and safety protocols. Aircraft should be regularly checked for any possible defects, and crews must receive comprehensive training on safety techniques and guidelines. Additionally, aircraft manufacturers must also be held accountable to develop aircraft with the most up-to-date safety technology.
Another step in strengthening air travel safety is the introduction of automated security systems. Advanced security systems are capable of analyzing and responding to potential threats while giving travelers a smooth and secure journey. These developments should be adopted and continuously improved by the aviation industry to further reduce the risk of incidents in the sky.
Finally, modernizing the infrastructure around airports and aeronautical communication systems should improve safety. Best practices need to be implemented throughout the entire airport infrastructure, from runways to control towers. This will ensure that air travel is conducted with the highest possible standards.
- Develop and enforce stringent safety standards
- Implement automated security systems
- Modernize airport infrastructure and communication systems
As the role of an air traffic controller comes with immense pressure, it’s essential to look after our mental wellbeing. It’s important to know where to turn to when in doubt, to share our struggles, and to reach out for help if we need it. Together, we can break the stigma that stops us from talking about our suicidal thoughts, and stand with each other in hard times.