Today, Explained Ecstasy Therapy: How MDMA became medicine
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Aug 2, 2024 
Haleema Shah, a reporter and producer focusing on MDMA therapy for PTSD, dives into the groundbreaking transformation of MDMA from a stigmatized substance to a potential healing tool. The discussion highlights military veterans' struggles with PTSD and their unlikely collaboration with the psychedelic movement. Personal stories from veterans on their journeys through MDMA-assisted therapy showcase its potential as a revolutionary treatment. The podcast also navigates the challenges of gaining FDA approval and changing societal attitudes toward psychedelics.
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Jonathan's PTSD Struggle
- Jonathan Lubecki, an Army Sergeant, served in Iraq in 2005 and experienced PTSD after returning home.
- He struggled with suicidal thoughts and found traditional VA treatments insufficient.
MDMA Therapy and Transformation
- After a suicide attempt, Jonathan discovered MDMA-assisted therapy through a clinical trial.
- He credits the therapy with saving his life and improving his mental health significantly.
Targeting Veterans
- Rick Doblin, founder of MAPS, strategically chose veterans as the target population for MDMA therapy trials.
- He believed their experiences would garner public sympathy and differentiate MDMA from recreational drugs.