In a compelling documentary by Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen, former US Navy SEALs candidly share their struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and explore an unconventional path to healing: psychedelic therapy. The film, In Waves and War, delves into the lives of these veterans as they seek solace through the use of hallucinogens such as ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT. These substances, derived from an African shrub and a river toad respectively, are portrayed as potential miracle cures for the battle-scarred minds of these soldiers.
Currently, this treatment is only accessible at a clinic in Mexico due to the lack of approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. However, researchers at Stanford University’s Brain Stimulation Lab are actively studying the clinical effects of these psychedelics. The documentary strives to present the treatment as legitimate, though it leans heavily on the personal testimonies of the veterans rather than scientific evidence.
The Battle Within: Veterans’ Struggles with PTSD
The documentary captures the haunting realities faced by these former soldiers, many of whom served in Afghanistan during the early 2000s. Their experiences in the theater of war have left them grappling with severe psychological scars, often leading to suicidal thoughts. One veteran reveals that childhood abuse, which influenced his decision to join the military, compounded his trauma—a burden he could only confront under the influence of psychedelics.
While the film does not delve deeply into the cognitive science behind the treatment, it features interviews with scientists who lend credibility to the therapy. Yet, it is the raw and emotional accounts from the veterans that resonate most powerfully with the audience.
Visual Storytelling: Animation and Music
Understanding that watching someone experience a psychedelic trip may not be visually engaging, the filmmakers employ tasteful animation to illustrate these journeys. The animations depict the veterans spinning in space, surrounded by their memories, providing a visual representation of their inner turmoil. In one memorable scene, a soldier envisions himself watching the sitcom Malcolm in the Middle, a moment of levity amidst the film’s otherwise somber tone.
The documentary’s solemnity is further underscored by its musical score, which features repetitive, melancholic chords reminiscent of Philip Glass. This musical choice effectively conveys the tragic cycles of pain experienced by the veterans.
The Broader Implications of Psychedelic Therapy
As the film presents, psychedelic therapy offers a controversial yet potentially transformative approach to treating PTSD. The use of psychedelics in mental health treatment has been gaining traction, with several studies indicating their efficacy in addressing various psychological disorders. However, the legal and ethical implications of such treatments remain a topic of debate.
According to Dr. Matthew Johnson, a professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, “Psychedelics have shown promise in treating conditions like PTSD, but more research is needed to fully understand their potential and limitations.”
“Psychedelics have shown promise in treating conditions like PTSD, but more research is needed to fully understand their potential and limitations.” – Dr. Matthew Johnson, Johns Hopkins University
The documentary’s release comes at a time when mental health awareness is increasingly prioritized, especially among veterans. Organizations such as the Veterans Affairs (VA) are exploring alternative therapies to address the mental health crisis affecting former service members.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Psychedelic Therapy
As the conversation around psychedelic therapy continues to evolve, the documentary In Waves and War contributes to the discourse by highlighting the personal stories of those who have experienced its effects firsthand. The film is available on Netflix starting November 3, offering viewers a chance to engage with this complex and thought-provoking subject.
For those struggling with mental health issues, resources are available. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted at 116 123, or via email at [email protected] or [email protected]. In the US, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is accessible by call or text at 988, or through their website at 988lifeline.org. In Australia, Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14. International helplines are listed at befrienders.org.
