In January, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced a request for applications for research proposals to study the use of certain psychedelic compounds in treating post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
The VA intends to collect definitive scientific evidence on the potential efficacy and safety of psychedelic compounds such as MDMA and psilocybin when used in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat mental health conditions.
A limited number of small studies by VA researchers have been conducted using non-VA funding. This new funding from the VA is an important next step in assessing the effectiveness and safety of using MDMA and psilocybin-augmented psychotherapy in veterans.
Although these compounds are controlled substances, tightly restricted under federal law, research on these compounds may be conducted with appropriate regulatory approvals from the Food and Drug Administration and Drug Enforcement Agency.
Under the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, the Department of Defense authorized the study of psychedelics within the military population. With this announcement, the VA will join the National Institutes of Health in supporting these research studies.
Contact your nearest DAV office. They will help you file a claim and stick with you all through the process, because no veteran should have to go at it alone.
DAV is an organization of veterans helping veterans.
The reasons are as individual as our members. Some join for the fellowship at our more than 1,200 local chapters. Some for the inspiring national events. Others for opportunities to serve their fellow veterans and their families. And many join to continue the fight to support the rights and benefits of all veterans. DAV understands the needs of veterans because we are veterans—1 million strong. We invite you to join our cause.
DAV Patriot Boot Camp Director Matt Feldhaus attended the Military Influencer Conference (MIC) this past week in Tampa, Florida!
While there, Matt had the chance to connect with leaders and organizations across the military and veteran community, catch up with some of our friends at Regiment, and hear from an incredible lineup of panelists, including Chef Robert Irvine.
MIC provided a great opportunity to build relationships, exchange ideas and learn from others who are making an impact in the military and veteran community. We’re grateful for the connections made and conversations shared! ...
The latest issue of the #DAVMagazine is now available, featuring stories about the people, programs and advocacy efforts making a difference for veterans and their families.
Inside this issue:
• A Purple Heart Vietnam veteran finally receives the benefits he earned • New legislation addressing the Edgewood Arsenal human experiments • How recreation therapy helped a paralyzed veteran restore hope • A message from DAV’s new National Commander • Information on The Dental Care for Veterans Act • The supportive community behind DAV Patriot Boot Camp • Highlights from the 2026 DAV & Auxiliary National Convention • Part 2 of our look at 250 years of the American veteran • The caregivers whose love inspires everything they do
Read the September/October issue of DAV Magazine: dav.la/3qi. ...
Today, DAV celebrates 106 years of serving America's veterans.
Founded on Sept. 25, 1920, in the aftermath of World War I, DAV was created by wounded and disabled veterans who believed no one should have to fight alone after returning home. They came together to advocate for the benefits they had earned, support one another and ensure future generations of veterans would have someone in their corner.
More than a century later, that mission remains as important as ever. Thanks to the dedication of our members, volunteers, supporters and partners, DAV continues to provide a lifetime of support to veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.
As we celebrate 106 years of service and advocacy, we'd love to hear from you. What does DAV mean to you? Let us know in the comments! ...
If you're registered for the DAV 5K, there's no reason to wait until race day to get in the spirit.
Follow the official DAV 5K - Run to Honor Veterans account for race-day updates, participant highlights, fundraising tips, important reminders and more. Once you’re following the race page, tag us in your posts and use #DAV5K so our community can cheer you on! ...