I would appreciate any advice folks can give . I have considered getting my private pilots license for about 10-15 years, and just started thinking about it again and am kicking the tires. I have been watching lots of training videos etc lately, and today stumbled on information regarding the use of SSRIs which I was quite surprised about.
I was diagnosed with OCD about 10 years ago (type of contamination OCD) and have been on 2 different SSRIs since then, both on the “approved” list (switched meds, not taken together). When on the medication I lead a very normal life, so much that my psychiatrist is now very slowly lowering the dose so we can get to a lower dose that is still efficacious. I have no intention of stopping the medication. (I stopped once and after 9-12 months symptoms came back) I also take benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide that controls moderate hypertension. I am relatively healthy, don’t smoke or drink.
From what I have gathered the SSRI I take is not completely disqualifying, but it sounds like the hoops and money involved for evaluations can be significant. I guess I am looking for confirmation that getting past this is quite prohibitive. If it was just a couple extra appointments and and a little extra money I would considerate it. However, if it is a huge hassle, costs an extra $5-10K like I have read, I don’t think it is worth it for me. I guess before I just give up, I want to make sure that my understanding of the situation is at least semi-accurate.
Thanks.
