The FAA has incredibly strict rules about mental health and pilots and disclosing medications and “problems”. The list is so strict that simple medications, or SSRI’s for mental help, *can disqualify you from getting licensed or at minimum ground you and permanent mark on your file.

There are like 60 meds listed that will defer your application or ground you until resolved. For example: diabetic meds, hypertensive meds, pain killers, seizure meds, SSRI, mood stabilizers, ADHD meds, anti-anxiety meds, muscle relaxants, any thing from a dentist office, and obviously sedatives.

Official statement from FAA about mental health. Bold highlights are mine.

faa.com “The statement that reporting a mental health issue frequently results in permanent grounding for pilots, or permanent removal from duties for controllers is false*.

The fact is that the initial deferral rate for all mental health diagnoses is around 20%. While the pilot/controller is without certification/clearance until the disqualification is resolved, the vast majority are cleared after an evaluation.

Only about 0.1 to 0.2% of all applicants who disclose any health issue and complete the process ultimately receive a Final Denial for a medical certificate (which means their only path to reconsideration is through the NTSB). And then only after an exhaustive attempt to “get to yes.” However, “getting to yes” can be very costly in time and money for the applicant. The widespread belief is that you are, in effect, penalized for following the disclosure requirements. A system that incentivizes people to remain silent will cause pilots/controllers to avoid seeking help, leading to unacceptable safety risks.”