Pathways to Healing: EMDR Therapy for Flight Attendants Experiencing Trauma

Pathways to Healing: EMDR Therapy for Flight Attendants Experiencing Trauma

Exposure to traumatic situations is a reality of the Flight Attendant profession. Flight Attendants may be required to respond to or witness medical emergencies, fatalities, serious safety threats, acts of violence, or other emergency situations while on duty. 

Beyond the aircraft, Flight Attendants may also experience personal trauma, including the loss of a loved one, the sudden destruction of a home, or becoming the victim of a violent crime.  

Trauma left untreated can become life‑altering for some individuals. It may contribute to significant psychological and physical health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, chronic pain, obesity, and heart disease.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic intervention widely used for first responder professions, such as the military, law enforcement, and firefighters.

EMDR is known to be a highly effective treatment for trauma by helping the brain process distressing experiences in a healthier way.

If you would like to have a confidential conversation about EMDR or about locating a qualified EMDR therapist, please contact the Flight Attendant Drug and Alcohol Program (FADAP) at 1‑855‑33‑FADAP (1‑855‑333‑2327). You'll  be connected to a trained peer from your airline.

You may also visit the EMDR International Association website to learn more about EMDR and to locate a trained clinician in your area