There has been a lot of hype around psychedelics for treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression. However, few studies have yet addressed the injury that many veterans are starting to think initiated these disorders—traumatic brain injury. A provocative new study provisionally accepted in Frontiers in Psychiatry suggests that well-structured psilocybin retreats may offer significant hope for veterans living with the aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly when it comes to persistent symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. But what does the science really say, and what should we keep in mind as this research unfolds?

Psychedelics, Neuroplasticity, and Veteran Needs

Psilocybin—the naturally occurring psychoactive compound found in “magic” mushrooms—has recently been making headlines as a potential game-changer for hard-to-treat mental health conditions. By stimulating serotonin receptors, psilocybin appears to promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire itself and recover from injury or disease.

For veterans with TBI, this is especially promising. Many struggle for years with the double burden of neurological damage and psychological distress—most notably PTSD and significant depression—often resistant to traditional therapies. The need for better options is pressing, and recent advances suggest psychedelic-assisted therapy may help fill this gap, but high-quality research remains scarce.

Retreat-Style Psilocybin, Psychological Gains, and Brain Changes

The study, led by a collaboration of neuroscientists and clinicians from institutions in London, Rome, and San Francisco, recruited 21 veterans who reported both TBI and ongoing psychological symptoms. These participants attended two six-day psilocybin retreats in Jamaica, facilitated by the Heroic Hearts Project—an organization dedicated to psychedelic therapies for veterans.

Preparation was thorough: participants underwent three individual and three group integration sessions prior to the retreat. Each received two psilocybin doses (ranging 1.5–5 grams), consumed as tea and administered by experienced facilitators within a supportive group context.

Four weeks before and after the retreat, participants completed standardized assessments for PTSD (PCL-5), depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (STAI). Brain activity was also measured using EEG, focusing on changes in cortical rhythms and functional connectivity—key indicators of brain health. The results were striking:

• PTSD symptoms dropped by 50%
• Depression scores fell by 65%
• Anxiety measures decreased by 28%

Objectively, EEG recordings revealed decreased delta and theta power (typically elevated in brain injury and mood disorders) in frontal and temporal areas—likely reflecting improved cognitive control and emotional processing. Enhanced coherence in the alpha and beta bands suggested the brain was operating with increased efficiency and integration.

Limitations and Scientific Caution

It’s important to approach these findings with measured optimism. The study design was open label—all participants knew they received psilocybin, and there was no control group. Such designs are prone to placebo effects and expectation bias. The sample was also small (21 veterans) and self-selected, meaning these individuals may have been particularly motivated or receptive to psychedelic therapy.

The context—a carefully curated retreat with extensive preparation—likely influenced outcomes as much as the drug itself. Psilocybin outside of this structured environment may not yield similar results, and adverse psychological events, while not reported here, may occasionally occur.

From Science to Hope: What’s Next?

Despite these caveats, the findings suggest a new path forward for veterans with TBI and comorbid psychological distress: one that combines cutting-edge neuroscience with ancient ritual, intentionality, and community. Larger, randomized controlled trials are needed to separate true therapeutic effects from placebo and to refine safe, effective protocols.

If you or someone you know is a veteran living with PTSD, depression, or the consequences of brain injury, exploring clinical trials can be an empowering way to contribute to scientific progress—and perhaps benefit from emerging therapies as they are validated. At TrialFind, our 5-minute screening matches you to clinical trials in your area you’re actually eligible for—the fastest, easiest path to cutting-edge treatment research options and evidence-based hope.

Science is moving quickly. If this past decade is any indication, tomorrow’s breakthroughs may begin in the most unexpected places—even a cup of mushroom tea at a retreat in Jamaica.