New studies are being done on specific drugs (MDMA and psilocybin, the active ingredient in mushrooms). We have not gone back to the 70s, we are just learning more about how they can make people feel safe and open. In recent years, large universities have gotten special permission to do research on these drugs and their effects on PTSD. A few weeks ago, an executive order was issued for the DEA to hastily review the restrictions placed on these drugs (they are currently listed as Schedule 1, most restrictive and highly illegal) so that they can be a little more accessible and researchable.

I have not suffered from terrible PTSD, but I had a period of time where it was really bad. Luckily my suffering was very short term. I will say that it is unbearable when you are having this experience. Your mind is in a loop. It is far from pleasant. I would be on a run and my brain would get stuck. I would turn up the music as loud as it would go in order to drown out the thoughts. I would cry. I looked like a lunatic running and crying. I think about these days and I think about our troops with their PTSD and suffering. Think of a scratched record that you can’t get to in order to stop. That is their brain. It never ends. If you have never seen the movie, The Covenant, there is a scene that explains this so well: the veteran explains how the person who saved him has his hooks in him (this is a must see movie to truly understand).

I am not a fan of psychedelics for society as a whole. I am a fan of finding something to help with PTSD. I am also a huge fan of evidence based medicine. I am a fan of trying these medications in controlled situations, especially if there is proof that they can help. For years, people have been traveling to other countries or getting these drugs off the streets. Getting drugs off the streets: I am not a fan of that method.

There are so many reasons for people to end up with PTSD. When people are stuck, they look for ways out. Think drug use, alcoholism, etc. I carry so much empathy for this. Anything we can find to truly help those that are ready and willing to receive the help is a good thing for society as a whole.