American veterans are seeking relief from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through the use of psychedelics in Mexico.
veterans
The situation is extremely dire, as current reports suggest that nearly 17 veterans commit suicide each day in the United States. A large portion of these individuals experience post-traumatic stress and severe brain injuries, for which standard medications have proven ineffective in treating.
As a large number of veterans suffering from PTSD continue to seek healing, an increasing amount are resorting to…psychedelic-assisted treatment
In Mexico, individuals are consuming substances that are deemed illegal by the government they were fighting for.
Herb Daniels, a former member of the military, served for 14 years as a Green Beret and was in active combat for almost four years. Upon his retirement, he struggled with a deep despair that began to overtake him.
psychedelics for treatment.
In 2019, Marcus Capone, a retired Navy SEAL, and his wife Amber established the organization. Capone took part in the retreat and claims to have undergone a miraculous change through the use of psychedelics.
The experienced individual, who had PTSD and a traumatic brain injury after serving in combat multiple times, stated, “It accomplishes the task effectively.” They also added that traditional methods are challenging when it comes to addressing these issues.
In 2017, Marcus Capone attended a retreat where he was administered ibogaine, a plant-based hallucinogen from Africa, and also consumed 5-MeO-DMT, a compound extracted from the glands of a toad found in the Sonoran Desert.
“He mentioned that within a short period of time, everything was reset,” he recalled. “The stress and anxiety disappeared and lifted from my shoulders.”
They are now committed to supporting veterans in accessing treatment in Mexico.
Daniels expressed disappointment that certain veterans are unable to receive the necessary healing in the nation they fought to defend.
He stated that many individuals made the ultimate sacrifice. However, it appears that our nation is prepared to take any necessary measures to bring about healing and prevent further suicides as a result of that sacrifice.
Daniels expressed a sense of abandonment after removing our uniforms.
Last July, Daniels attended his first retreat in Mexico and has since returned with fellow veteran Mike Ortiz.
When the veterans arrived at the retreat location, CBS News was asked not to reveal it for safety reasons. They met with a local facilitator named Juan Aguilar, who led them through the process. Aguilar began by helping them set intentions and get ready for their experience. The therapy session began with mapacho smoke being used to purify the area, followed by a meditation focused on the medicine.
The core of the therapy consists of a brief and intense psychedelic encounter.
During the session, Daniels experienced a variety of emotions and was visibly moved as tears streamed down his face. The entire experience lasted approximately 10 minutes and he described it as “magical,” giving him a sense of a new beginning.
“Heart was opened, revealing pain and anger. Letting go brought awareness and relaxation,” he stated.
Ortiz stated that being free from pain for a brief period was an incredible sensation.
Daniels said he felt transformation with the experience.
According to him, altering your point of view doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. If you have faith that it’s possible, then it is possible. Occasionally, all you need is a small push to assist you in reaching that goal.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or is in a crisis involving suicide, you have the option to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through a call or text to 988. Alternatively, you can engage in a chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through this platform.
To access resources and support for mental health care, contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email [email protected]. They are available from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET.
Source: cbsnews.com