Take it easy Thrash, it's all good. It does not count as a death, you just do not get your name up in lights when you have 2 or more kills. Some of the most exciting flights I have had involve a torn up aircraft, barely flyable, limping home, deadstick. You put that baby down on the runway and you have a nice sense of accomplishment. I always check the damage message before landing if I have been hit to see if the landing gear is intact, if not, just slide her down the runway wheels up.
As you gain experience and ability you will be glad that things here can be difficult, that is what makes it so much fun.