Veterans with PTSD travel to other countries to access psychedelics
Summary
In 2024, the U.S. Veterans Administration began funding clinical trials using psychedelic drugs psilocybin and MDMA to treat PTSD, depression, and addiction. Meanwhile, many veterans have traveled to countries like Mexico where these drugs are legal to participate in psychedelic retreats, seeking relief from their symptoms.Key Facts
- The Veterans Administration announced clinical trials for psilocybin and MDMA to treat veterans with PTSD, depression, and addiction.
- It may take years before these drugs become officially available through the VA.
- Thousands of veterans currently travel abroad to places like Mexico for psychedelic retreats, often involving traditional indigenous ceremonies.
- Nine veterans from across the U.S. joined a week-long retreat near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in March 2024.
- Veterans at the retreat included TJ Duff, a Navy sailor injured in the USS Cole attack, and Randy Weaver, an Army sergeant with PTSD from combat tours.
- Many veterans have tried existing treatments like therapy and medication with limited success.
- The Heroic Hearts Project, a nonprofit, organized and funded the retreat to help veterans access these psychedelic therapies.
- Veterans hope the retreats offer new ways to cope with trauma and reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression.
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