A Roadmap To Healing: First-Ever Veterans' Guide To Psychedelics Now Available

A first-of-its-kind guidebook offers a comprehensive resource aimed at helping military veterans explore psychedelic-assisted therapy as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions. The guide released on October 22, is called The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics and was developed by the Heroic Hearts Project in collaboration with author Matt Zemon.

As the authors told Benzinga, this nearly 300-page resource combines ancient healing traditions with the latest in therapeutic science, offering a holistic framework for veterans to prepare, navigate and integrate their experiences with psychedelics. It features reflective journaling, safety protocols and expert guidance to empower veterans on their healing journeys.

"The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics encapsulates years of experience and dedication to ensure veterans have the knowledge and support to access these healing practices in a responsible and informed way," said Jesse Gould, founder of Heroic Hearts Project.

Endorsements From Experts And Leaders

The guide has garnered support from key thought leaders in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery and psychedelic research. Bessel van der Kolk, MD, praised the resource for providing veterans with "the knowledge and guidance to engage with psychedelic therapies responsibly."

Rick Doblin, PhD, founder of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, said, "People deserve access to these life-saving treatments, and The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics helps pave the way."

Retired Navy SEAL Rear Admiral Losey also expressed support. "For those who have given everything and are searching for a way back to their best, this guide lays it all out clearly, responsibly, and with heart."

Empowering Veterans With A Path To Healing

Developed specifically for veterans by experts in the field, The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics includes tailored exercises to help veterans mentally, physically, and emotionally prepare for psychedelic therapy. It also offers step-by-step insights into both medical and ceremonial settings, ensuring that veterans have the tools needed to safely navigate their experiences.

"Veterans are turning to psychedelics in search of healing. This guide helps them make informed decisions and maximize their healing potential, empowering them to reclaim control over their mental and emotional health," said Zemon.

Psychedelics And Veterans’ Mental Health Advocacy

Veterans have increasingly become leading voices in the push for psychedelic-assisted therapy reform. Several of America's largest veterans organizations have pressured Congress to expand access to both medical marijuana and psychedelics, citing the urgent need for new mental health treatments.

In turn, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has acknowledged the growing support for psychedelics. VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal called it an "unstoppable narrative" earlier this year. The VA has started to explore the potential of psychedelics, launching research programs and laying the groundwork for future therapies if the Food and Drug Administration approves these treatments.

As public support for psychedelics grows, states like Massachusetts and California are considering legislation that would expand veterans’ access to these substances. Despite setbacks, such as the postponement of a psilocybin pilot program in California, advocates remain hopeful that continued awareness and research will drive reforms forward.

Cover image made with AI.