The Frontlines of Recovery: A Risk Analysis of Psychedelic Treatment for PTSD in Combat Veterans

open_access
Open Access
Author:
Purchase, Victoria
Area of Honors:
Security and Risk Analysis
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Nick Andrew Diehl, Thesis Supervisor
Michael Keith Hills, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
PTSD
Posttraumatic stress disorder
Veterans
Military
Veteran mental health
TBI
traumatic brain injury
Psychedelics
psychedelic-assisted therapy
psilocybin
LSD
Ayahuasca
MDMA
DMT
Ibogaine
Ketamine
novel drug treatments
mental health
veteran suicide
SSRI
SNRI
Combat PTSD
military mental health
Abstract:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a crisis in the veteran community. It’s estimated that approximately 1.26 million veterans will suffer from PTSD at some point in their lives. Current treatment options, including traditional therapy and pharmaceutical interventions, have limited efficacy, especially for veterans. A new and more effective treatment option is needed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy has emerged in recent decades as a promising option. Studies have been conducted suggesting that certain psychedelic drugs like psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, MDMA, ibogaine, and ketamine may improve PTSD symptoms and even cure it. However, despite growing research, significant challenges remain, including political limitations, social stigmas, and safety and efficacy concerns. This thesis conducts a comprehensive analysis of the potential benefits and risks associated with psychedelic-assisted therapy for PTSD in combat veterans. It examines the effects of certain psychedelic substances, their mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential, and risks. A thorough risk assessment is conducted for each substance to determine whether its benefits outweigh its risks. Each risk analysis is then used to assess the overall implications for future psychedelic research, policy decisions, and veteran healthcare. Overall, the research presented emphasizes the importance of controlled psychedelic use, informed treatment and research, individualized treatment plans, and the need for responsible rescheduling of psychedelics to facilitate medical use without recreational access. Ultimately, this research aims to provide a balanced perspective that informs policymakers, medical professionals, and the veteran community about the use of psychedelic-assisted therapy as a treatment option for veterans suffering from PTSD.