Sarko Gergerian, a police officer and MDMA-assisted psychotherapist, joins Rick Doblin, founder of MAPS, and Diane Goldstein, former lieutenant at LEAP, to discuss the evolution of law enforcement's relationship with psychedelics. They explore how psychedelics can transform crisis response training for officers, enhance mental health support, and heal trauma among first responders. The conversation highlights the urgent need for progressive policies to promote therapeutic models and shift societal narratives around drug use.
The shift in law enforcement perspectives on psychedelics highlights the potential for therapeutic applications, such as MDMA-assisted psychotherapy.
Training programs for police officers on managing psychedelic crises emphasize the need for tailored approaches in drug-related incidents.
Advocates stress the importance of addressing historical injustices from the 'War on Drugs' by viewing substance use disorder as a public health issue.
Deep dives
Breaking Down Barriers in Law Enforcement
The podcast highlights the significant shift occurring within law enforcement regarding the perception of psychedelics and mental health. Officers like Sarko Gregarian exemplify this change by actively participating in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and advocating for its therapeutic potential. This discussion emphasizes the importance of dismantling old beliefs and fostering collaborative relationships between the police and communities, which have historically had adversarial interactions due to drug policies. The segment illustrates how openness and proactive communication can pave the way for mutual understanding and healing.
Innovative Training for Law Enforcement
A notable initiative presented in the episode is the implementation of psilocybin and psychedelic crisis response training for police officers. This program aims to equip officers with the skills needed to recognize and effectively manage incidents involving psychedelics, thereby promoting public safety and officer wellbeing. The training is rooted in the recognition that individuals experiencing difficult psychedelic trips may require a different approach compared to conventional drug-related crises. This tailored training serves as a model for how law enforcement can adapt to the evolving landscape of drug policy reform.
Understanding the Traumas Faced by Officers
The podcast sheds light on the profound psychological toll experienced by law enforcement professionals due to the nature of their work. Officers accumulate exposure to numerous traumatic incidents, leading to heightened rates of depression and mental health issues. This reality underscores the urgency for systemic changes within police departments to prioritize mental health support and wellness resources. By recognizing the human side of law enforcement, there arises an opportunity to foster resilience and healthier coping mechanisms among officers.
Addressing Historical Injustices in Policing
The discussion encapsulates the necessity for police to acknowledge and rectify historical injustices perpetuated through the 'War on Drugs.' Former law enforcement officials like Diane Goldstein advocate for a broader understanding of substance use disorder as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. Goldstein emphasizes the importance of developing model policies that prioritize the sanctity of life and promote holistic community health. This conversation highlights the vital role of law enforcement in facilitating healing and amends with marginalized communities previously affected by punitive policies.
Collaborative Approaches to Drug Policy Reform
The episode emphasizes the critical need for collaboration between law enforcement, researchers, and community organizations in shaping effective drug policies. Rick Doblin of MAPS discusses the ongoing efforts to create a supportive environment for officers seeking alternative therapies. This partnership aims to build trust and mutual support among police and community members, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all involved. By advocating for reform and sharing successful models, the podcast illustrates how transformative change can begin within these institutions.
This podcast comes from the Aspen Psychedelic Symposium from last summer. It features Diane Goldstein who is the executive director of Law Enforcement Action Partnership, Sarko Gergerian a police officer from Winthrop, Mass and Rick Doblin from MAPS.
This panel was introduced by Zach Leary and was a highlight of our trip to Aspen's conference last year.
We discuss new ways in which police should or could consider psychedelics and drugs more generally.
Thanks to Aspen Public Radio and Aspen Psychedelic Symposium for allowing us to share this podcast.
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