Attention Deficit Hyperactivity: A New Hope

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are pretty common. The Centers for Disease Control tells us “An estimated 7 million (11.4%) U.S. children aged 3–17 years have ever been diagnosed with ADHD, according to a national survey of parents using data from 2022.” Furthermore, boys were more likely to receive the diagnosis (15%) than girls (8%). Over 78% of kids with this issue have other psychiatric issues which tend to worsen the problem. These frequently include anxiety, depression or autism spectrum disorder. Treatment of ADHD varies. For kids under 6, behavioral (talk) therapy is recommended as first line. For older kids and teens usually a combination of medications and behavioral therapy is usually prescribed. Ideally, ADHD diagnosis and treatment is administered by an expert in the field, a psychologist or psychiatrist. Many folks are, however diagnosed and treated by the family physician or other health care provider.

Poorly controlled ADHD precludes the safe operation of an aircraft.

The picture in adults can be a bit different. It is estimated that 15.5 million adults (6%) have ADHD. About a third are taking a stimulant medication for this condition. While it is normal for anyone to sometimes have trouble focusing or to feel restless, people with ADHD have more severe problems in these areas which can last much longer, causing problems in work and relationships, not to mention flying an airplane. Thus, the FAA is vitally concerned in addressing the issue of ADHD and flight.

Obviously, poorly controlled ADHD precludes the safe operation of an aircraft. However, the natural history of the disorder is such that with time, many individuals can taper off their medications and do very well indeed. Others can obtain a high degree of control of symptoms with appropriate therapy. Thus, it is possible to obtain a medical certificate with a current or past history of ADHD or ADD. The process is involved, however, and if you do have either of these diagnoses you will have to prepare. You would do well to review the “ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)* AND/OR USE OF ADHD MEDICATIONS” https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/ADHD_disposition_table.pdf. This outlines the process and contains hyperlinks to additional information involving the decision making process. One new wrinkle the FAA has recently introduced is the so-called “ADHD Fast Track.” If you have been off all ADHD medications for at least four years and do not have a history of other psychiatric diagnoses you should gather all of your relevant medical records. Take them to a neuropsychologist for review and have her/him complete a “Fast Track FAA ADHD Summary.” You can get that from a hyperlink above. Take that and the written report along with all supporting documents to your AME. He will review this and go through a questionnaire. If all of it looks OK, the AME can issue. If not, you will have to go through the deferral process and have the docs at the FAA review things for a possible Special Issuance. Yeah, it is a lot to go through, but if you are well-controlled, it can be well worth it!

Fly wisely. See you next month!

As always, comments, questions and suggestions are welcome: jdlakinmd@gmail.com

Also, we’ve moved our office to Airlake Airport’s FBO (KLVN). Call 952-469-4414 or email info@aloft-aviation.com for a flight physical appointment.