During a recent Cabinet meeting, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins told President Donald Trump that the VA is actively exploring the potential use of psychedelic treatments to address the veteran suicide epidemic.
Federal Partnerships and Nonprofit Collaboration
In response to Trump’s inquiry on veteran mental health initiatives, Collins said the VA is working with various nonprofits and federal partners, including Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to explore innovative therapies.
Though Trump did not directly respond to the mention of psychedelics, the fact that the topic was raised during a nationally televised Cabinet meeting marks a significant shift in how the federal government publicly discusses alternative mental health treatments for veterans.
Support from Veteran Advocacy Groups
Matthew Buckley, the No Fallen Heroes Foundation chairman, applauded the public dialogue, calling it “an incredible moment.” However, he urged government officials to back up their words with action, stressing that veterans deserve real support, not just promises.
Collins recently described an “eye-opening” discussion with Kennedy and expressed his intent to press lawmakers to advance access to psychedelics. Among potential policy options: federal vouchers that would cover psychedelic therapy conducted outside the VA system.
VA-Funded Psychedelic Research Already Underway
The VA is already investing in this space. In December, it awarded $1.5 million to study MDMA-assisted therapy for veterans struggling with PTSD and alcohol use disorder. Earlier research at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center showed promising results in initial trials.
Cannabis Policy and Psychedelics Reform Still Under Watch
While advocates are encouraged by the VA’s openness to psychedelics, there remains concern about how Collins will approach cannabis policy. His past congressional record includes votes against expanding medical marijuana access for veterans, which could indicate a cautious stance going forward.
Defense Department Also Investing in Psychedelics Research
In a parallel move, the Department of Defense has allocated nearly $10 million for MDMA research focused on active-duty personnel. Some Republican lawmakers believe the Trump administration’s cost-cutting measures could create conditions for bolder reforms within federal agencies, including those related to psychedelics.
