Veterans Turn to Ibogaine in New Netflix Documentary to Combat PTSD
A new documentary titled In Waves and War, set to premiere on November 3, 2023, explores the journeys of U.S. Navy SEAL veterans who turn to the psychedelic drug Ibogaine as a means to alleviate the symptoms of PTSD and depression. The film highlights the experiences of veterans who have traveled from the United States to a clinic in Mexico to access this treatment, which remains illegal in their home country. Researchers from Stanford University are documenting their progress as they navigate this unconventional path to recovery.
The documentary delves into the personal stories of the veterans, detailing their motivations for joining the military and the traumatic experiences they faced during their deployments. Through candid interviews, the veterans share their struggles with mental health and the desperate measures they have taken to find relief. The film aims to raise awareness about veteran suicide, which tragically claims the lives of approximately 17 veterans each day, and to provide hope for those in similar situations.
The Therapeutic Potential of Ibogaine
Recent interest in psychedelics, particularly Ibogaine, has gained traction in both popular culture and scientific research. Historically linked to the counter-culture movements of the 1960s, psychedelics are now being recognized for their potential therapeutic benefits. According to a 2021 feature by TIME, research has shown that psychedelics can positively impact mental health, including studies on psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, which has demonstrated efficacy in reducing anxiety and depression among cancer patients.
While no FDA-approved clinical trials for Ibogaine exist in the United States, preliminary studies hint at its effectiveness. For instance, a study published in Nature in 2025 by Stanford Medicine examined the effects of Ibogaine combined with magnesium on 30 special operations veterans. The findings suggested significant reductions in PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms, along with improved functioning in veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, a 2020 study in Chronic Stress reported substantial symptom reductions in 51 veterans who participated in Ibogaine treatments in Mexico from 2017 to 2019.
Despite these promising results, pharmaceutical companies remain hesitant due to concerns regarding Ibogaine’s potential to cause heart complications. Nonetheless, companies like ATAI Life Sciences are working to develop FDA-approved treatments, while researchers at the University of California, Davis are investigating alternatives that may mitigate risks associated with Ibogaine.
Veterans’ Experiences with Ibogaine
In In Waves and War, veterans discuss their decision to try Ibogaine as a last resort after years of struggling with traditional treatments. Many express their frustration at not finding effective solutions for their mental health issues. The film captures moments of vulnerability and healing as veterans undergo their first Ibogaine sessions, guided by fellow veterans like Marcus Capone and DJ Shipley, who share their own experiences with the drug.
Visual animations in the film recreate the veterans’ psychedelic experiences, providing insight into their emotional journeys. Capone recounts his first Ibogaine trip, where he confronted memories from his past, saying, “I saw difficult moments from my life from a different angle. It made me realize none of this was my fault.” Another veteran, Matty Roberts, reflects on his experience while looking into a mirror, expressing feelings of disconnection from himself.
The documentary also highlights the transformations that occur post-treatment. Elias Kfoury shares that the chronic headaches he endured for over a decade largely disappeared after his Ibogaine experience. In a poignant scene, he expresses gratitude, saying, “thank you” while overwhelmed with emotion.
Capone acknowledges that while Ibogaine may not provide a complete cure, it offers veterans a new perspective and tools to manage their mental health. He emphasizes the importance of establishing support systems to prevent relapses. The film concludes with veterans expressing newfound hope and control over their emotions. One participant, Joe, shares, “There’s a light in my eye that I haven’t seen since I was a child,” as researchers note significant improvements in their mental health.
As the documentary prepares for release, it not only sheds light on the struggles faced by veterans but also advocates for broader acceptance and research into psychedelic treatments as viable options for mental health care. With ongoing efforts from organizations like Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), the hope is to create pathways for veterans seeking alternative healing methods while fostering understanding and compassion for their experiences.
