“Aviation relies on split-second, high-stakes decisions made with absolute precision”, Dr. Geeta Shroff, Co-Founder, Lighthouse Counselling Centre.
A graduate in medicine from the University of Delhi, Dr. Geeta Shroff did her post-graduation in Gynaecology & Obstetrics. She further specialized in infertility, and is a trained embryologist and a qualified IVF practitioner. Dr Shroff has also conducted research on human stem cells since 1999, and pioneered Embryonic Allogenic Stem Cell Therapy using her patented methods. She has been granted patents in 132 countries and has presented her work at various national and international forums. Dr. Shroff had her first brush with mental health as a house job at the Safdarjung Hospital Psychiatry Department and has always had a deep commitment to mental well-being-a value she has upheld throughout her years of practice. It is with this background that she co-founded Lighthouse Counselling Centre in 2024 along with Mr. Rohan Shroff, who holds an M. Sc. in Psychology.
Lighthouse Counselling Centre is a unique mental health initiative offering services such as psychotherapy, workshops for mental well-being, internships, career guidance etc. Below is an interview with Dr. Shroff to understand the importance of mental well-being:
Q: Why did you branch out into mental health after being one of the most recognised doctors in the field of regenerative medicine & gynaecology?
A: I believe that mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being. Over the years, I’ve seen how stress and emotional distress often manifest as physical symptoms. By addressing mental well-being through individualized therapy, we can promote true healing. For me, health represents an equilibrium between psychological & physical wellness.
Q: Why is mental health such a critical safety factor in the aviation industry?
A: Aviation relies on split-second, high-stakes decisions made with absolute precision. Mental health issues like stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue impair key cognitive functions — judgment, focus, situational awareness, and teamwork — increasing the risk of operational errors.
Q: What are the primary stressors unique to aviation professionals?
A: Aviation professionals face unique stressors such as irregular schedules, heavy responsibility, and prolonged time away from family. Added to this are fears about job security and medical approvals, which often deter them from seeking help, and the emotional impact of critical incidents that can lead to trauma or distress.
Q: Why should senior management in aviation prioritise employee mental health?
A: Senior management should prioritise employee mental health as it is both a safety and business imperative. Untreated mental health issues increase the risk of human error and accidents, reduce productivity, and drive burnout and attrition. Supporting employee well-being enhances focus, resilience, and organizational performance, while also ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory expectations.
Q: What actions should management take?
A: Leaders must create a “just culture” where seeking help is seen as responsible, not risky. Key steps include:
• Destigmatization: Openly promote mental wellness and normalize conversations.
• Peer Support Programs (PSPs): Offer confidential, non-punitive peer-led assistance.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide confidential access to professionals familiar with aviation stressors.
• Training: Equip staff to recognize and respond to signs of distress.
• Work Practice Review: Improve schedules, fatigue management, and work-life balance to reduce chronic stress
Q: How can Lighthouse Counselling Centre help aviation companies enhance mental well-being of their employees?
A: Lighthouse Counselling Centre can conduct Emotional Resilience Programs via practical sessions on:
– Stress Management, Anxiety & Fatigue management
– Resilience & mindfulness training
– Conflict resolution
– Empathy & inclusion training
– Substance abuse
-Coping behaviour support
For the management level employees, workshops on Burnout & Mindful Leadership Training can be organised. Lighthouse Counselling Centre can also provide support to develop organisational mental health guidelines, conduct psychological assessments and track the impact of their initiatives.
For more details ,reach out to us at : +91 96508 18899
