Sally Roberts, a U.S. Army veteran and national champion wrestler, faced years of PTSD-driven nightmares, depression, and suicidal thoughts after returning from Afghanistan.
Traditional therapy and meds only went so far—until psychedelic therapy, which she says saved her life. Now, she and others urge North Carolina lawmakers to address such treatments for veterans.
Psychedelics like MDMA, psilocybin, and ibogaine are studied for PTSD and substance use disorders, paired with guided therapy in controlled settings. In NC, home to a large military population, 12-25% of veterans struggle with PTSD, and their suicide rate is 1.5 times the state average.
Advocates back Senate Bill 568, which doesn’t legalize psychedelics but proposes a 16-member task force to study risks, benefits, and implementation if the FDA approves such treatments.
The bipartisan bill aims to prepare NC, avoiding the need for veterans to seek unregulated care abroad—where risks like deaths from poor oversight exist.
Critics note concerns: MDMA therapy was rejected by an FDA panel in 2024 over safety and trial issues, and long-term effects are unclear. But supporters stress the need for trained therapists and medical oversight.
“States can lead” as federal action lags, said advocate Glenn Withrow. SB 568, though stalled this session, could pave the way for accessible, safe care.
“This is for North Carolinians, by North Carolinians,” said Logan Davidson of Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions.
This article references suicide. For support, call/text 988 or visit mental health resources.
READ MORE
