Beyond the Headlines: Veterans' Diverse Perspectives on Psychedelic Therapy

Posted: June 19, 2025

When discussions arise about psychedelic-assisted therapy, particularly in the context of policy reform and potential treatments for conditions like PTSD, U.S. veterans are often at the center of the conversation. Their experiences, sacrifices, and the significant mental health challenges many face make them a population for whom new therapeutic avenues are desperately sought. However, it's crucial to move beyond assumptions and understand that the veteran community, like any large group, holds a diverse range of views on psychedelics. For those interested in psychedelic psychotherapy but uncertain about its reception or applicability, especially concerning veterans, exploring these varied perspectives is essential. The narrative often highlighted in media and advocacy focuses on the potential of psychedelics to heal trauma and alleviate suffering, and indeed, many veterans have found profound benefits. Yet, the reality on the ground is more nuanced. A national mixed-methods study by Tsai, Witte, and Fate (2025) sheds light on the use and attitudes about psychedelics for therapeutic purposes among low-income U.S. veterans, revealing a spectrum of opinions and experiences.

A Snapshot of Psychedelic Use and Beliefs Among Veterans

The study by Tsai et al. (2025), which surveyed 1,031 low-income veterans nationally as part of the National Veteran Homeless and Other Poverty Experiences (NV-HOPE) Study in 2023, found that the lifetime prevalence of psychedelic use specifically for therapeutic purposes was 5.6%. While this number might seem modest, it represents a significant group of individuals actively seeking these alternatives. Furthermore, nearly a quarter of the veterans surveyed (23.2%) believed that psychedelics should be legalized for therapeutic use. This indicates a considerable level of support or openness to the idea within this population, even if they haven't personally used psychedelics for therapy. Interestingly, the study revealed that veterans who reported more behavioral health issues, such as mental health disorders and substance use disorders, and those with a history of psychosocial problems like homelessness, were more likely to have used psychedelics for therapeutic reasons. They were also more likely to endorse the legalization of psychedelics as therapeutics (Tsai et al., 2025). This suggests that those facing the most significant challenges may be more inclined to explore or support unconventional treatment options that show promise. Another study focusing on the epidemiology of psychedelic use among U.S. military veterans by Smith et al. (2024) (note: the user provided a link to an article by Levin et al. (2024) with this title, but the abstract details align with a study on psychedelic use patterns, benefits, and adverse outcomes) surveyed 426 veterans. This research found that approximately half (51%) reported ever using psychedelics. Of those who had, a large majority (70%) did so for healing or treatment, and nearly half (48%) for spiritual purposes. A striking 85% of these veterans reported benefiting from their use (Smith et al., 2024). This highlights a strong positive sentiment among those who have direct experience.

The Spectrum of Attitudes: Positive Views and Lingering Concerns

The qualitative data gathered by Tsai et al. (2025) is particularly illuminating, as it captures the mixed attitudes within the veteran community. Positive attitudes were often rooted in personal experiences of benefit or a strong belief in the potential of psychedelics to heal. Veterans who had found relief through these substances were, understandably, strong proponents. However, negative attitudes also surfaced, primarily related to concerns about the potential risks associated with psychedelics and doubts about their overall treatment effectiveness (Tsai et al., 2025). These concerns are valid and reflect a need for more comprehensive education and transparent information about both the benefits and risks. The historical context of psychedelics, their classification as Schedule I drugs, and the associated stigma can contribute to these apprehensions (Smith et al., 2024).

The Importance of Preparation, Setting, and Support

The study by Smith et al. (2024) also delved into adverse outcomes. Nearly two-thirds (59%) of veterans who had used psychedelics reported experiencing some adverse outcomes. This is a significant finding that underscores the importance of context and support when psychedelics are used. However, it's also crucial to note that an equivalent proportion rated their psychedelic experiences as beneficial, regardless of whether they reported adverse outcomes (89% who had adverse outcomes still found it beneficial, versus 81% who did not report adverse outcomes). This suggests that even challenging experiences can ultimately be perceived as valuable within a broader healing journey. Critically, the research identified factors associated with fewer adverse outcomes. These included being older, using psilocybin (as opposed to other psychedelics), feeling well-prepared and confident in the reasons for use, being in a comfortable and safe setting, and possessing the psychological ability to “trust, let go, and be open” during the experience (Smith et al., 2024). These factors strongly align with the principles of psychedelic-assisted therapy as conducted in clinical research settings, where extensive preparation, a supportive therapeutic environment, and integration sessions are standard components. This reinforces the idea that while psychedelics may offer benefits, their use without proper preparation, guidance, and support can lead to adverse outcomes. It's not just about the substance itself, but the entire set and setting – the mindset of the individual and the environment in which the experience takes place.

Psychedelics and the VA: A Potential Future?

The prospect of psychedelic-assisted therapy being offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a topic of considerable interest. The study by Smith et al. (2024) found that veterans who had used psychedelics reported they would be more likely to use VA services and to return to the VA for their care if psychedelic therapy was an option. This is a compelling finding, suggesting that offering these treatments could potentially improve engagement with VA healthcare services among a segment of the veteran population. While the VA has historically been cautious, there are signs of evolving perspectives. The VA has recently funded its first study on psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans, signaling a willingness to explore these modalities through rigorous research (VA News, 2024 – note: specific date from search result, actual VA news releases would be primary source). This is a critical step, as research conducted within the VA system and tailored to the specific needs and experiences of veterans will be invaluable in determining the safety and efficacy of these treatments for this population.

Moving Forward: Education, Research, and Individualized Approaches

The findings from these studies highlight several key takeaways for those interested in or uncertain about psychedelic psychotherapy, especially concerning veterans:

Diversity of Opinion: It's vital to recognize that there isn't a single "veteran view" on psychedelics. Experiences and attitudes are varied, ranging from strong advocacy to cautious skepticism. This diversity should be respected and acknowledged in all discussions.
Personal Experience Matters: Those with direct, positive experiences are often strong supporters. However, the lack of personal experience, coupled with historical stigma or concerns about risks, can lead to hesitation.
Context is Key: The safety and perceived benefit of psychedelic use are heavily influenced by preparation, setting, and support. This underscores the difference between unsupervised use and structured, therapeutic applications.
Need for More Research: While existing studies are promising, more research, particularly large-scale clinical trials and studies within VA settings, is needed to fully understand the potential and limitations of psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans.
Open Dialogue: Fostering open and honest conversations about psychedelics within the veteran community and with healthcare providers is crucial. This includes discussing potential benefits, risks, and the importance of evidence-based approaches.

For individuals uncertain about psychedelic psychotherapy, it is important to seek out credible information, understand that the field is evolving, and recognize that the veteran community itself is navigating this complex landscape with a range of perspectives. The push for policy reform and increased access is often driven by compelling stories of healing, but a comprehensive understanding requires acknowledging the full spectrum of experiences and concerns. As research continues and understanding grows, the hope is that safe, effective, and accessible psychedelic-assisted therapies can become a valuable option for veterans who may benefit, always approached with the care, respect, and individualized attention that their service and sacrifices deserve.

Disclaimer: Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy has not been approved by any regulatory agencies in the United States, and the safety and efficacy are still not formally established at the time of this writing.

References

Levin, A. W., Lancelotta, R., Sepeda, N. D., Gukasyan, N., Nayak, S., Wagener, T. L., Barrett, F. S., Griffiths, R. R., & Davis, A. K. (2024). The epidemiology of psychedelic use among United States military veterans. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs. Published online. DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2024.2401977.

Tsai, J., Witte, L., & Fate, T. (2025). Mixed-Methods Study of Use and Attitudes About Psychedelics for Therapeutic Purposes Among Low-Income U.S. Veterans Nationally. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs. Published online ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2025.2483705

VA News. (2024, December 3). VA funds first study on psychedelic-assisted therapy for Veterans. https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-funds-first-study-on-psychedelic-assisted-therapy-for-veterans/