STRESS


A major human factor of concern in aviation safety is the crewmember’s ability to effectively manage stress. Stress is defined as “a mentally or emotionally disruptive or upsetting condition occurring in response to adverse external influences and capable of affecting physical health, usually characterized by increased heart rate, a rise in blood pressure, muscular tension, irritability and depression.”


Stress is directly related to how we feel, think and interact with people and events. While some stress is required for peak performance, if stress gets out of control the human factors system breaks down, accidents happen and the ability to properly respond to an emergency is seriously compromised.


STRESS AND PERFORMANCE


Keeping in mind the definition of stress, here are a few examples of stress reactions that could lead to an aircraft accident and diminished levels of emergency response.


Biological (inside the body) Acute – headache, low blood sugar, tired Chronic – ulcers, migraines, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia


Psychological (inside the mind) Acute – fear, worry, irritable Chronic – complacency, anxiety, depression


Sociological (interaction with others) Acute – crew coordination/communication problems Chronic – communication disorder, divorce, job loss, suicide


Spiritual (beliefs) Acute - anger, rage, blame Chronic – loneliness, depression, feelings of abandonment


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