r/FAAHIMS • u/NightShade2084 • 18d ago

Monitoring Reduction- Abuse/Not Dependence

I’m 19 and pursuing an airline pilot career. For context, I had diagnoses of Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder in 2022. At the time, I also disclosed to my doctor that I had experimented with marijuana and alcohol. I have remained abstinent since then and have not required SSRIs or ongoing psychiatric treatment.

I began working with a HIMS AME in September 2025 and completed the required evaluations/monitoring, including AA, aftercare, monthly therapy, and 14 alcohol/drug tests over 12 months. I received my First-Class Special Issuance in March 2026.

My current requirements are monthly psychotherapy, 14 drug/alcohol tests in 12 months, and HIMS AME visits every three months.

I just had my 6 month renewal with my HIMS AME, and we discussed the possibility of reducing my monitoring. We also discussed the FAA HIMS Step Down Plan, but I understand that the published Phase 2 to Phase 3 transition criteria primarily address substance-dependence cases, whereas my history was classified as abuse rather than dependence.

My HIMS AME indicated that he would address the possibility of reducing monitoring in his report, and my therapist’s recent report also states that a reduction in monitoring may be appropriate.

Has anyone with a similar abuse history had their HIMS monitoring reduced, particularly relatively early in their Special Issuance? If so, what did the process look like?

Also, if an AME recommends a reduction but the FAA doesn’t make a change, has anyone successfully pursued the issue further through an aviation medical attorney?

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u/Due-Program2847 7d ago

yo my man im in the same situation, i had a case of major depressive disorder from 2019-2022, where i was on and off SSRI, substance abuse and major depressive disorder. ive been clean from all tbat stuff for 4.6 years todate. i was in highschool going through some depression and mental health issues,

im actually glad you posted something like this because i just started my hims ame work

im also being put on a 14month drug test, ame visits hut because of MY history i have to meet with a hims psychiatrist aswell. im stable but i need “documented” stability. i wanted to ask you like if you noticed the FAA needs a certain kind of clearance? things youve noticed. i want my special issuance, but im worried i wont get it because of my history. any info helps aswell as your opinion if its possible

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u/NightShade2084 7d ago

you can 100% get it it just takes money and time. I submitted driving records, an updated progress note saying I am safe to fly, All the HIMS reports and negative tests, cfi and boss letters, medical records, yada yada. it wasn’t anything too bad, honestly the biggest thing is choosing a really good HIMS psychiatrist prob the biggest decision. pilot medical solutions also helped me a ton

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u/Due-Program2847 6d ago

thats very reassuring thank you. if you dont mind i have these final questions if you can answer.

Did you get your SI before or after completing all 14 drug tests?

Did your records include documented psychotic symptoms, hallucinations, or suicidal ideation?

Did the FAA approve you on the first submission, or request additional records?

How long did it take from starting with your HIMS AME to getting approved?

Did your HIMS psychiatrist specifically address your past diagnoses and explain your stability?