Advice for getting started with ADHD

[medic6728]

I have wanted to fly since I was a kid. Unfortunately, I have ADHD and take medicine for it. I understand the ban. I am very high functioning with my medicine. I'm a CVICU nurse and a flight nurse. Making quick, high pressure decisions is not an issue. I plan to get my sport license and the limitations work for me for the most part. My biggest issue is only being able to take 1 passenger. I'd like to take both of my kids up.
My question is, do I get the sport license and try to forgo my medicine for 4 years and transion to PPL or is the risk of a failed medical too high? Another concern is that I function so well with my medicine, I am worried about rocking the boat.

 

[flyingcheesehead]

Maybe just take one kid, and then take the other?

The real issue with trying to get a medical is that if you don't get it, you lose the sport pilot option too. Forever (or until you do qualify for a medical).

There is some hope that you may be able to do more later - If you search this site for "MOSAIC" there may be some useful information there. I'm not sure if you'll be able to get a Private with no medical once (if) that goes through or not.

Only you can say whether it's worth going off your medication. It seems like there are ADHD coaches, cognitive behavioral therapy apps, and all sorts of other resources available now to help you deal with it, but I have no idea if any of that stuff actually works. In any case, it's probably worth talking with someone who actually knows things about this (unlike me). Good luck!

 

[medic6728]

I had not seen MOSAIC. That looks like it would be amazing. Either way I go, I'm finally getting started on a 40 year old dream. Thanks for the response.

 

[Roller]

You’re a flight nurse, have you asked your crew about this?

You know FAA is NOT evidence based medicine right?

Lots of AME (aviation medical examiners) guides online

 

[Domenick]

Contact Dr. Bruce Chien at http://www.aeromedicaldoc.com/

He has helped many, many people navigate FAA medical issues and special issuances. DO NOT do it alone. There are many potential pitfalls, and many pilots have tangled up their dreams by trying to go it alone against satisfy the FAA. In this matter the FAA is NOT your friend. This may sound harsh, but they DO NOT want you to fly. You may think you have solid proof of high-functioning, but as Roller pointed out, FAA is NOT evidence based medicine.

It sound like you have managed to create a successful life for yourself and family despite ADHD. Do not risk that by going off your meds until you have consulted with Dr. Bruce. He will be able to give you a good idea of your chances of success.

 

[Ivan M]

I would prefer your decision making on meds rather than off meds and just able to pass an FAA medical.

 

[Anthem]

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