Exploring Access to Psychedelics Among Canadian Veterans: Pathways, Barriers, and Perceptions
Psychedelic Medicine December 17, 2025 Luis E. Contreras, Grace Elliott, Francesco Kment et al.
Most Canadian military veterans seeking psychedelics for mental health treatment turn to underground sources rather than legal pathways, according to a survey of 30 veterans. Only 20% accessed psychedelics legally, while 64% pursued self-directed experiences and 44% had guided experiences within Canada. Veterans relied primarily on peers (73.3%) and media (53.3%) for information, with only 10% consulting health care providers. Among those who avoided discussing psychedelics with providers, 64% cited concerns about stigma, while 69% who did consult found providers lacked knowledge about psychedelic treatments. These gaps in access and education highlight the need for improved clinician training and policy reform.