Senate Report Urges Immediate Research Into Psychedelics for Treating PTSD in Veterans
A Senate report is urging the federal government to launch a “major research program” to explore how psychedelics can benefit veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The report emphasizes the need for action and highlights the effectiveness of psychedelic therapy as demonstrated by evidence.
According to Sen. Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu, the deputy chair of the subcommittee on veteran affairs, Canada is lagging behind other countries like the United States and Australia, which have already commenced studies on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. In July, Australia authorized the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant depression and MDMA therapy for PTSD.
The report examines the potential of psychedelics such as psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine. Sen. Boisvenu expressed his encouragement regarding the positive results of psychedelic therapy and emphasized the urgency for Canada to take action.
Positive Testimonials and Disturbing Statistics
During a press conference, Sen. Boisvenu and subcommittee chair David Richards shared success stories of veterans who had previously tried various medications and therapies without success but experienced breakthroughs with psychedelic therapy. The report highlights that conventional treatments can sometimes exacerbate the conditions of veterans, while psychedelic therapy often produces positive outcomes.
According to the report, approximately 10 to 15 percent of Canadian veterans have been diagnosed with PTSD. Shockingly, the suicide rate among male veterans is 50 percent higher than the general population, 200 percent higher for female veterans, and 250 percent higher for male veterans under 25.
Research as the Path to Legalization
The call for increased research on the use of psychedelics aligns with the opening of more “magic mushroom” shops across Canada, despite the substance’s illegal status. This trend mirrors the circumstances leading up to the legalization of cannabis in 2018. The report acknowledges that not everyone may benefit from psychedelic therapy, as experiences can vary. However, the transformative potential of substances like psilocybin and MDMA for veterans cannot be ignored.
While the report primarily focuses on psychedelic treatment for veterans, subcommittee chair David Richards suggests that the research underlying these findings may eventually contribute to future legalization efforts. He emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans and providing them with every possible avenue for healing.
Conclusion
Given the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of psychedelic therapy for veterans with PTSD, the Senate report recommends immediate action to establish a comprehensive research program. This initiative aims to ensure that Canadian veterans receive the support and treatment they need and deserve. By investing in research on psychedelics, Canada has the opportunity to lead in this field and provide a promising solution for the mental health challenges faced by its veterans.