Exploring Navy SEALs, PTSD, Addiction, and Psychedelics: A Deep Dive into Healing through Film

In Waves and War tells the story of Navy SEALS deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. These warriors return to face a new battle: health issues related to their service. The documentary premiered at the DOC NYC film festival. It explores nightmares, explosive outbursts, pain, alcoholism, and depression among these veterans. For some, hopelessness leads to suicidal thoughts before they discover ibogaine, an experimental treatment.

Directors Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen share stories from three SEALS: Marcus Capone, Matty Roberts, and DJ Shipley. Through interviews and flashbacks, they reveal the impact of combat on the physical and mental health of these servicemembers, who often joined at a young age.

In a gripping scene, Roberts loses an arm. His medical diagnoses include traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After being discharged, he struggles with survivor’s guilt. Shipley, deployed on nearly 200 missions between 2005 and 2010, faces depression and memory loss but hides his suffering for years.

Veterans Health Crisis

Veterans’ mental health is a national crisis. I have treated many veterans in my medical career. Common problems include back pain, anxiety, and depression. PTSD and depression are widely discussed, but issues like schizophrenia and suicidality are also prevalent. Each day, approximately 20 veterans take their own lives. The suicide rate among veterans is significantly higher than that of the general population.

An Experimental Treatment To The Rescue

After years of service, Capone sought a medical retirement. He described a life filled with alcohol and guilt. At a VA hospital, he underwent numerous tests and treatments, but his condition worsened. His wife found a program in Mexico offering ibogaine, a psychoactive compound, as a treatment option. In the U.S., despite research showing benefits, ibogaine remains classified as a controlled substance, limiting access.

Capone, Roberts, and Shipley traveled to Mexico for treatment that lasted five days, followed by 5-MeO-DMT. Their past traumas were visually represented through animation. Each veteran was closely monitored during treatment. Post-treatment, they reported feeling uplifted and experiencing a shift in their perspective, free from guilt and shame. One SEAL remarked, “It was a new day.”

Ibogaine In The U.S.?

Dr. Nolan Williams, a psychiatrist, noted the high incidence of TBI among veterans. His Stanford study found significant reductions in PTSD, anxiety, and depression in veterans treated with ibogaine. “We have a tool that can mend the mind,” Dr. Williams stated.

Many veterans express hope after treatment with psychedelics. Research supports the health benefits of ibogaine for issues like depression and addiction. The main barrier in the U.S. is regulatory, as ibogaine is a Schedule I substance. Treatment requires medical supervision due to potential side effects.

There is hope for broader applications of psychedelic therapy in treating trauma beyond veterans. Survivors of other traumatic experiences could greatly benefit. We need more research and advocacy for the declassification of these substances.

The resilience and courage of Navy SEALS and their families stand as a testament to the human spirit. There is still a fight ahead for mental health and support, and together we can make a difference.