The statistics surrounding mental health among U.S. military veterans paint a grim picture, with alarming rates of suicide plaguing this community. For those battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries, traditional treatments often fall short, leaving many veterans desperate for relief. In a surprising twist, some former service members are finding solace in psychedelic-assisted therapy, journeying to Mexico in pursuit of healing, despite the substances they seek being deemed illegal in their homeland.
Meet Herb Daniels, a retired Green Beret with 14 years of service and numerous combat deployments under his belt. After leaving the military, Daniels found himself grappling with profound darkness, contemplating suicide as an escape from his inner turmoil. His journey from the brink of despair to newfound hope is emblematic of the transformative power of psychedelic therapy.
The Journey to Healing:
For Herb Daniels and countless other veterans, the path to healing led them to VETS (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions), a nonprofit organization offering grants for psychedelic therapy in Mexico. Founded by former Navy SEAL Marcus Capone and his wife Amber, VETS provides veterans with access to alternative treatments that remain inaccessible within the United States.
The Transformative Power of Psychedelics:
Marcus Capone’s personal experience with psychedelic therapy served as a catalyst for founding VETS. After struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injury, Capone underwent a profound transformation during a retreat in Mexico, where he was administered ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT. These psychedelic substances facilitated a cathartic release of stress and anxiety, offering Capone a newfound sense of peace and clarity.
A Journey of Discovery:
For veterans like Daniels and Mike Ortiz, the retreat in Mexico represents a beacon of hope amidst their struggles. Under the guidance of local facilitators, participants embark on a therapeutic journey that combines ancient traditions with modern insights. Through rituals involving meditation and the ceremonial use of psychedelics, veterans confront their inner demons and emerge with a renewed sense of purpose.
Embracing Transformation:
During his psychedelic session, Daniels experienced a profound emotional catharsis, shedding tears as he confronted buried pain and anger. Ortiz, likewise, found relief from his burdens, describing the sensation of being “pain-free” as euphoric. Both veterans attest to the transformative power of the experience, emphasizing the importance of belief and openness to change.
A Call for Compassion:
As veterans like Daniels and Ortiz undergo their healing journey, they confront a sobering reality: the challenges of accessing effective treatment within their own country. Despite their sacrifices in service to their nation, many feel abandoned by a system ill-equipped to address their needs. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition and support within the veteran community.
The quest for healing knows no bounds, as evidenced by the courageous journey of U.S. military veterans seeking relief from PTSD through psychedelic therapy in Mexico. While their path may be unconventional, their resilience and determination offer hope for a brighter future. As society grapples with the complexities of mental health care, let us not forget the bravery and sacrifice of those who continue to fight for healing, both for themselves and for their fellow veterans.