President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 18. The order aims to speed up access to psychedelic drug treatments for Americans with serious mental health conditions. It places a strong focus on veterans.
The order directs the FDA to fast-track its review of certain psychedelic substances. These substances have already been designated as breakthrough therapies. Speaking at the White House, Trump said the move will expand treatment options. He said it will help patients who have not responded to traditional care.
“These treatments are currently in the advanced stages of clinical trials to ensure that they’re both safe and effective for the American patients,” Trump said. He added that some therapies have shown “life-changing potential” for people with severe mental illness and depression.
The initiative comes as officials raise concerns about mental health. This is especially true among military veterans. Trump pointed to the scale of the issue. He said the suicide rate among veterans remains a national crisis.
“The suicide epidemic among veterans is a national tragedy,” Trump said. “Since 9/11, we’ve lost over 21 times more veteran lives to suicide than on the battlefield.”
The executive order seeks to create a clearer pathway for research and approval. It includes psychedelic treatments such as ibogaine. Ibogaine is a plant-based psychoactive compound. Early studies suggest it may help patients who do not respond to standard therapies.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the policy will remove barriers. He said those barriers have limited research in the United States.
“This executive order will remove the legal impediments that blocked American researchers, scientists, physicians, and clinicians from properly studying these medicines,” Kennedy said.
The Department of Health and Human Services will allocate at least $50 million from existing funds. The money will support state programs and further research into psychedelic treatments.
Supporters of the policy attended the signing ceremony. This included Joe Rogan. They pointed to growing public awareness about these therapies. Rogan said he shared research on ibogaine with Trump before the decision.
Veterans’ advocates also welcomed the move. Doug Collins said the order opens new possibilities. He said it could help address mental health challenges among veterans.
“We need an all-of-the-above strategy when it comes to tackling mental health, and your EO opens up new possibilities for America’s Veterans,” Collins said.
Trump also cited a 2024 study from Stanford University. The study involved special operations veterans. According to Trump, participants saw an 80 to 90 percent reduction in symptoms. This included depression and anxiety within one month. Broader research remains limited.
Former Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell said the treatment helped him regain stability. He expressed support for the order. He said it could help many others.
The executive order frames psychedelic drugs as part of a broader strategy. It focuses on new approaches to mental health care. It also calls for more research while expanding access.
Officials and researchers say early findings show promise. However, more studies are needed. They say long-term safety and effectiveness are still unclear.