Assessing the Need for a Mental Health Task Force for Aviation Science Students at Bridgewater State University

Author Information

Cooper Castellone

Abstract/Description

In the current landscape of aviation, the issue of mental health is of great concern, particularly among flight training students who grapple with depression in silence. A report issued by the Pilot Mental Health Aviation Rulemaking Committee in April 2024 underscored seven significant barriers impeding pilots from seeking necessary support for mental health concerns. Consequently, we completed a study aimed at understanding the prevailing mental health challenges among flight training students and identifying strategies for institutions, such as Bridgewater State University (BSU), to offer meaningful assistance. Our study consisted of a survey distributed to 14 institutions in the United States. Participants were requested to complete the Patient Health Questionnaire 9, a validated tool for assessing depression severity. More than half of the participants reported mild to severe depression symptoms, and about half of the participants cited fear of repercussions from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a deterrent to seeking help. The majority of participants also indicated that they would not be likely to use a mental health program if one was implemented at their institution. Considering these findings, it becomes imperative for institutions like BSU to adopt effective and proactive tools that support their flight training students. These include but are not limited to, education on FAA policies, regular check-ins with students, and implementing a student mentorship program.

Note on the Author

Cooper Castellone (he/him) is a 2024 graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science, with a double concentration in Flight Training and Aviation Management. Cooper completed his honors thesis during the Spring 2024 semester under the mentorship of Professor Loren Herron (Department of Aviation Science). Cooper presented his thesis at the Student Arts & Research Symposium (StARS) as a lightening presentation at Bridgewater State University in April 2024. Cooper plans to work as a Certified Flight Instructor at BSU, while employing many of the recommendations outlined in his thesis for flight training students battling mental health issues.

Recommended Citation

Castellone, Cooper (2024). Assessing the Need for a Mental Health Task Force for Aviation Science Students at Bridgewater State University. Undergraduate Review, 18, 304-320.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/undergrad_rev/vol18/iss1/31

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