WASHINGTON — Veterans' battles do not end when their military service does. 6,146 veterans died by suicide in 2021, according to the most recent Department of Veterans Affairs report.
"It is a sad reality that close to 17 veterans per day will lose their lives to suicide. One life lost to suicide is one too many," said Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, (R- Iowa), chair of the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health.
That panel on Tuesday held the first-ever oversight hearing: "Emerging Therapies: Breakthroughs in the Battle Against Suicide."
One of the breakthroughs could lie in the on-going Veterans Affairs Department clinical trials on the use of psychedelic therapies, such as closely monitored, medically administered micro doses of psilocybin mushrooms to treat post-traumatic stress disorder — if eventually approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Miller-Meeks called the therapies "ground-breaking," with other lawmakers agreeing.
"While the research on psychedelics has been limited, it has shown promise. However, as the chairwoman said, it is our duty as members of Congress to ensure that treatments offered to veterans are both effective and safe," said Rep Julia Brownley, (D-California).
Dr. Carolyn Clancy VA Assistant Undersecretary was also supportive of the effort.
"The VA is committed to safely exploring all avenues that promote the health of our nation's veterans," she said.
Lawmakers heard that another solution could lie in 10 ongoing VA studies on the potential use of cannabis, two of which are focusing on PTSD and pain management.