McHenry Times

This month, as Veterans Day approaches, there is a call for increased responsibility in supporting veterans upon their return home, especially after combat deployment. Veterans often face challenges such as trouble concentrating, stress decompression, depression, flashbacks, and thoughts of suicide. These issues can lead to substance abuse or sleep problems. While some veterans adjust over time, others experience ongoing mental health challenges that resist traditional therapies.

A retired Colonel of the U.S. Air Force emphasized the importance of addressing veteran suicide. "I have seen too many veterans return from duty and struggle with significant mental health challenges," he stated. Recent data indicates an estimated 22 to 44 veterans per day are lost to suicide or self-harm.

The United States faces a veteran mental health crisis requiring bipartisan legislative solutions. "These individuals who come back home and struggle to readjust are the same individuals who answered a call to serve," he noted.

Research into new treatments for drug-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress has shown promise with psilocybin, also known as psychedelic mushrooms. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) awarded psilocybin therapies a "Breakthrough Therapies" designation for certain cases.

Last year, Senate Bill 3695 was sponsored to expand research on psilocybin's medicinal use in clinical settings for drug-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress. The bill's co-sponsorship focused on medicinal-only applications.

"The use of psilocybin in drug-resistant cases of depression and post-traumatic stress is undoubtedly a controversial issue," the retired Colonel acknowledged. Despite this controversy, exploring all treatment options remains crucial due to the high number of veteran suicides daily.

For those in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.