U.S. Military Veterans Are Going to Mexico for Psychedelic Treatment Thomas Edward - High Times
go to original November 27, 2023

Veterans treat PTSD in Mexico with substances illegal in the U.S. (CBS Mornings)

A recent report by CBS News highlighted this trend, noting that as “many veterans with PTSD remain desperate for healing, a growing number are turning to psychedelic-assisted treatment in Mexico — using substances the government they fought for says are illegal.”

“As I watched more of my teammates…more veterans start to take their own lives, I realized that that’s an option,” Herb Daniels, a former Green Beret, told CBS.

Following his retirement from the military, Daniels “said he faced a profound darkness that started to consume him,” which ultimately resulted in multiple suicide attempts.

He ultimately “found out about VETS, Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions,” a “nonprofit organization funds grants for veterans to go to Mexico for treatment that isn’t legal in the United States,” according to CBS News.

The organization shuttles veterans from San Diego to Mexico for a psychedelic retreat each week.

Daniels embarked on his first retreat last year. CBS News has more on the experience:

“Upon arrival at the retreat site, the location of which CBS News was asked not to disclose for the safety and security of the participants, the veterans met with a local facilitator, Juan Aguilar, who guided them through the process. Aguilar first focused on setting intentions and preparing the veterans for their experience. The therapy session started with the use of mapacho smoke to cleanse the space, followed by a focused meditation with the medicine. The heart of the treatment involves a short, intense, psychedelic experience. During his session, Daniels went through a range of emotions, visibly moved as tears rolled down his face. The experience lasted about 10 minutes, and he said it felt ‘magical, like a fresh start.’”

“My heart was just opened, wide open, and there was laid bare so much pain, so much anger and as soon as I let it go, I became aware of my presence again, and I felt my body just relax,” Daniels told the network.

According to CBS, Daniels “and his wife now dedicate themselves to assisting veterans in getting the help they need – by helping them get to Mexico for treatment.”

The story highlights a significant component of the drive to make psychedelics legal in the United States: researchers are increasingly convinced of their potential as a form of mental health treatment, and they have been vulnerable populations, including returning veterans.

Earlier this month, Massachusetts Gov. Maura T. Healey filed legislation that includes a proposal to the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for veterans.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and this transformative legislation marks an important step toward ensuring that Massachusetts supports them in return,” said Healey. “From day one, our administration has been committed to revitalizing veterans’ services in Massachusetts and ensuring that every one of these heroes receives the benefits, resources and support that they deserve.”

Veterans advocacy groups applauded the bill.

Read the rest at High Times

Related: Female Veterans Turn to Psychedelic Therapy in Mexico (The New York Times)

Related: How Psychiatrists Got Serious About Psychedelics to Treat Mental Health (Robb Report)

Related: Reset, Restore and Find Presence With the Power of Mushroom Therapy (Sayulita Wellness Retreat)

Related: Lucid Wild Offers Psychedelic Wellness Retreats in Puerto Vallarta (Healing Maps)

Related: Why a Psilocybin Wellness Retreat May Be Right for You (Black Enterprise)

Related: Microdosing Psychedelics Has Benefits, Users Say. Science Isn’t Convinced (The Washington Post)