Veterans Turn to Psychedelic Therapy for PTSD Relief Amid Ongoing Mental Health Crisis

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As the nation continues to face a growing veteran mental health crisis, more wounded warriors are turning to alternative treatments in their search for peace. Among these is psychedelic-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an approach still illegal at the federal level but gaining traction through clinical research and veterans’ personal success stories.

One of those veterans is Navy SEAL Marcus Capone, who served multiple combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. After returning home, Capone struggled with the invisible wounds of war and found little relief through traditional treatments. In 2017, his wife suggested an unconventional approach — psychedelic-assisted therapy. Initially skeptical, Capone traveled to Mexico, where Ibogaine, a powerful psychedelic compound, is legally administered under medical supervision.

“My life completely changed,” Capone said. “I felt again. I feel like I haven’t felt anything in years.”

While Ibogaine is one form of treatment, other clinical studies use substances such as LSD, Ketamine, and MDMA alongside psychotherapy to help patients reprocess traumatic memories. Dr. Barbara Rothbaum, a leading researcher in PTSD treatment, is conducting a Department of Defense–funded study combining MDMA with therapy to help veterans safely confront and process trauma.

“It’s not MDMA like kids are going to get in the clubs,” Dr. Rothbaum explained. “People are monitored, screened for safety, and receive extensive therapy.”

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins recently signaled support for expanding research into psychedelic treatments. “We’ve got to research it, make sure it’s good,” he said, emphasizing the need for data-driven progress.

While several states have passed legislation supporting research, experts say it could still be years before psychedelic-assisted therapy is federally approved. For now, veterans like Capone hope their stories spark greater awareness — and faster access to life-changing care.

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