"Exploring Psychedelic Therapy: Dr. Casey Means' Controversial Recommendations"
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"Exploring Psychedelic Therapy: Dr. Casey Means' Controversial Recommendations"
[!CDATA[The new nominee for surgeon general, Dr. Casey Means, has made controversial recommendations regarding the use of psychedelic drugs for therapy. In her book "Good Energy," she suggests considering psilocybin-assisted therapy, despite the substance being illegal under federal law. Means, who received her education from Stanford University, has also advocated for the benefits of MDMA in treating PTSD. She has not completed her medical residency and her medical license is inactive. In her book, Means discusses strategies for improving metabolic health, emphasizing the importance of managing stressors and traumas. She believes that guided psilocybin therapy can be a transformative experience for some individuals. While there is limited research on the benefits of psychedelics, the risks associated with their use include hallucinations, increased heart rate, and nausea. Means acknowledges the stigma surrounding psychedelics and refers to them as "plant medicine." Means recounts her personal experience with mushrooms, describing them as a gateway to a different reality free from limiting beliefs. She also mentions using psychedelics to create space for finding love. In a recent newsletter, she highlighted her desire for healthier school meals, warning labels on processed foods, and investigations into vaccine safety. Means did not specifically mention psychedelics in her health policy wish list but emphasized the need for alternative approaches to health research. Calley Means, Casey's brother and a health adviser in the Trump administration, has also expressed support for psychedelic drugs. He described his experience with psilocybin as the most meaningful of his life and invested in companies researching psychedelics. Casey Means' confirmation hearing as surgeon general has not been scheduled, following the withdrawal of Trump's initial nominee, Janette Nesheiwat. The selection of Means reflects Trump's preference for public personas over policy positions.]]