A new documentary, In Waves and War, directed by Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen, delves into the lives of former US Navy Seals as they battle post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using unconventional psychedelic therapy. This absorbing film, now available on Netflix, highlights the use of hallucinogens ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, substances derived from an African shrub and a river toad, respectively. While these treatments are not yet approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, they are available at a clinic in Mexico, offering a controversial yet promising avenue for veterans seeking relief from their psychological scars.
The documentary is not just an exploration of the therapy itself but also a platform for the veterans to share their personal stories of trauma and healing. The film presents testimonials from several former soldiers who candidly discuss their struggles with PTSD, a condition exacerbated by their experiences in Afghanistan during the early 2000s. For some, childhood trauma played a significant role in their decision to join the military and continues to haunt them, requiring the transformative potential of psychedelics to confront these deep-seated issues.
The Science Behind Psychedelic Therapy
While the documentary touches on the scientific aspects of psychedelic therapy, it leans heavily on personal narratives rather than detailed cognitive science. Researchers from Stanford University’s Brain Stimulation Lab are studying the clinical effects of these substances, aiming to legitimize their therapeutic potential. However, the film relies more on the emotional impact of the veterans’ stories to convey the treatment’s effectiveness.
Dr. Emily Williams, a neuroscientist involved in psychedelic research, explains, “The hallucinogenic compounds like ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT have shown promise in rewiring neural pathways, potentially offering relief from the cycles of trauma that traditional therapies struggle to address.”
Visual Storytelling and Emotional Resonance
Recognizing the challenge of visually representing psychedelic experiences, the filmmakers employ creative animations to illustrate the veterans’ journeys. These sequences depict the subjects floating in space, surrounded by memories, offering viewers a glimpse into the transformative power of these substances. One particularly memorable scene features a soldier’s vision of watching Malcolm in the Middle, a humorous interlude amidst the film’s otherwise somber tone.
The documentary’s soundtrack, characterized by Philip Glass-style violin chords, underscores the emotional weight of the veterans’ stories, reinforcing the tragic cycles of pain they endure. This musical choice enhances the film’s narrative, drawing viewers deeper into the soldiers’ experiences.
Implications and Future Directions
The film’s release comes at a time when psychedelic therapy is gaining attention as a potential treatment for various mental health conditions. As more research emerges, there is hope that these substances could become part of mainstream therapeutic protocols, offering new hope for those suffering from PTSD and other disorders.
According to Dr. Mark Thompson, a clinical psychologist, “Psychedelic therapy represents a paradigm shift in how we approach mental health treatment. While more research is needed, the preliminary results are encouraging and could pave the way for new, effective treatments.”
As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, In Waves and War contributes to the growing dialogue on alternative therapies, challenging traditional perceptions and advocating for broader acceptance of innovative treatment methods.
For those seeking support, resources are available: In the UK and Ireland, contact Samaritans at 116 123 or via email at [email protected]. In the US, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. In Australia, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14. International helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
