Psychedelic Therapy for PTSD: Veterans Seek Healing in Mexico Amid U.S. Legal Restrictions

LOS ANGELES- A recent CBS News report has brought to light a significant trend among veterans dealing with PTSD: an increasing number are seeking psychedelic-assisted treatments in Mexico, utilizing substances currently deemed illegal by the U.S. government. This development underscores the growing desperation for effective mental health treatments among veterans, as traditional methods often fall short in providing necessary relief.

Herb Daniels, a former Green Beret, shared his harrowing journey with CBS, revealing the profound darkness and multiple suicide attempts he faced after retiring from the military. In his search for healing, Daniels discovered Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), a nonprofit organization that funds grants for veterans to undergo psychedelic therapy in Mexico, a treatment not legally available in the United States.

The organization arranges weekly retreats for veterans, transporting them from San Diego to Mexico. Daniels’ experience at one such retreat was transformative. Under the guidance of local facilitator Juan Aguilar, the veterans engaged in a carefully orchestrated session involving mapacho smoke cleansing, focused meditation, and a short but intense psychedelic experience. Daniels described the experience as “magical, like a fresh start,” highlighting the profound emotional release and relaxation he felt.

In an act of gratitude and commitment, Daniels and his wife now dedicate themselves to assisting other veterans in accessing these life-changing treatments in Mexico.

This trend is part of a broader movement advocating for the legalization of psychedelics in the United States, with researchers increasingly recognizing their potential for mental health treatment, especially for vulnerable populations like returning veterans. In Massachusetts, Governor Maura T. Healey recently filed legislation proposing the exploration of therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for veterans. Veterans advocacy groups have applauded this initiative, recognizing its potential impact on veterans’ mental health and wellbeing.

However, the decisive action for the legalization of psychedelics in the U.S. hinges on federal law. In Washington, a growing number of lawmakers are advocating for the legal use of psychedelics in mental health treatment. Notably, a bipartisan bill was introduced this summer by Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw, directing the Department of Defense to research psychedelics.

Significantly, there have been indications that President Joe Biden may be open to the idea of psychedelic treatment. His brother, Frank Biden, suggested as much in a recent interview, highlighting the President’s open-mindedness and the nation’s readiness for a shift in consciousness regarding addiction treatment and unity.

As the debate continues, the story of veterans like Herb Daniels seeking treatment abroad shines a spotlight on the urgent need for effective and legal therapeutic options within the United States.