But I would like to know a *real* behaviour specialist's take on what
constitutes "therapy" after stress
From my own limited experience, stuff like golf and bridge come to mind as
being useful, because they require a focus of the mind... as does piloting.
But the difference is that a momentary lapse during a bridge game, back to
mulling the real-life issue, will not become particularly disastrous.

I think, perhaps, you have misunderstood what I meant by "therapy." I
certainly don't mean to imply that I'm just sitting in the cockpit in a
Zen-like trance, completely transfixed and relaxed.

Man, nothing could be farther from the truth! Nothing gets -- and
keeps -- your attention like flying -- especially pattern work. You
are entirely, 100% "in the moment" -- which is why it's such great
therapy. There is simply no room for other worries, outside of what
you are doing -- even after years of flying.

There is nothing like facing a life-and-death situation (which, in the
final analysis, flying *is*) to focus the mind! It tends to put
everything in perspective, highlighting how stupid most of our
day-to-day worries truly are.

But can it be individual-dependant? Are some people more at risk to fly
after stress, but others are not? How can I tell which is which? How can I
tell which one am I?

I suppose it's possible for someone to be SO stressed that even flying
can't grab their attention? I don't know...but I guess I'd stay on
the ground if I was so distraught.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"