5.01.26 – May 2026: Mental Health Awareness Month

Friday, May 1, 2026

You Matter at Every Altitude

Being a Flight Attendant comes with unique demands—irregular schedules, long duty days, time zone changes, and constant transitions. Over time, these challenges can impact both physical and emotional well-being—even for the most experienced crew members.

Your APFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here to support you every step of the way with confidential, professional resources designed to help you manage stress, maintain balance, and navigate both work and life challenges.

Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, personal concerns, or simply need someone to talk to—support is always within reach.

“Our unity is our strength. Supporting the well-being of every Flight Attendant is a shared responsibility.”

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Peer Support

Peer Support connects you with fellow Flight Attendants who understand the realities of the job — because sometimes, talking to someone who truly “gets it” makes all the difference.

Confidential Conversations
A safe, private space to speak openly and honestly—without judgment.

Support from Trained Peers
Guidance from fellow Flight Attendants who understand the realities and demands of the job.

Emotional Support After Difficult Experiences
Assistance processing challenging flights, passenger situations, turbulence events, medicals, or critical incidents.

Stress & Fatigue Check-Ins
Support navigating burnout, exhaustion, mental strain, and the cumulative weight of the role.

A Space to Decompress
An opportunity to vent, reflect, and reset after long or demanding trips.

Guidance & Encouragement
Practical coping strategies, steady reassurance, and support when it matters most.

Connection During Isolation
Meaningful connection during layovers, time away from home, or moments of isolation.

Early Support
Support is available at any time—you do not need to wait for a crisis to reach out.

Referrals to Additional Resources
Direct connection to EAP, professional services, and additional layers of support when needed.

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You Are Not Alone

Peer Support is here to listen, support, and help you move forward — one conversation at a time.

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Rest. Reset. Recharge.

Fatigue is one of the most common challenges Flight Attendants face.

• Early departures and late arrivals disrupt natural sleep cycles
• Changing schedules can make consistent rest difficult
• Fatigue can impact mood, focus, and overall well-being

Small, intentional actions can make a difference:

• Prioritize quality sleep whenever possible
• Stay hydrated—cabin air can be dehydrating
• Incorporate light movement or stretching during layovers
• Protect your sleep environment (dark, quiet, cool)

Listen to your body.

• Recognizing early signs of exhaustion or burnout—and taking action—helps you stay safe, healthy, and at your best.

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Did You Know? | Mind & Wellness Edition

• Irregular schedules can impact mental health just as much as physical health
• Exposure to natural light during layovers can help reset your internal clock
• Cabin-related dehydration can contribute to fatigue and mental strain
• Feeling emotionally drained after difficult passenger interactions is common—and support is available

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Recognizing When to Reach Out for Immediate Help

Call or Text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Available 24/7 — Free & Confidential

Reach out if:

• You’re feeling overwhelmed or in emotional distress
• You’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• You’re concerned about a fellow crewmember, friend, or family member

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Call 911 — Emergency Services

Call immediately if:

• Someone is in immediate danger
• There is a medical emergency or life-threatening situation
• Urgent, in-person assistance is required

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Taking the first step to reach out is not a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful commitment to your well-being. In a profession that asks so much of you—long duty days, constant transitions, and caring for others—it’s easy to put your own needs last. But your mental and emotional health matter just as much as everything you do for others.

Reaching out can feel difficult, especially when you’re used to handling things on your own. Whether you’re dealing with stress, fatigue, a challenging trip, or something more personal, you don’t have to carry it alone. There is strength in recognizing when you need support—and even more strength in accepting it.

Every conversation is confidential. Every concern is valid. And every step you take toward caring for yourself matters.

Stay strong. Stay supported. And remember—you are never alone.

Contact us anytime at [email protected].

In Solidarity,

Cherie Johnson
APFA EAP Specialist
[email protected]