NFL Players Discuss Psychedelic Use for Healing Beyond the Field
NFL players share insights on using psychedelics for healing at Denver's Psychedelic Science conference, highlighting a cultural shift in addressing mental health
Key Points
- 1NFL players discuss psychedelic use for mental health at Denver conference
- 2NFL sees 692 concussions from 2019-2023, highlighting injury prevalence
- 3Psychedelics may offer new approaches to identity and trauma for athletes
- 4Scientific evidence on psychedelics for brain injuries remains preliminary
- 5Cultural acceptance of alternative therapies is growing among athletes
In a groundbreaking discussion at the Psychedelic Science conference in Denver, NFL players Jordan Poyer, Robert Gallery, and Jon Feliciano shared personal stories about their experiences with psychedelics. The panel, titled 'Healing Behind the Highlights,' highlighted the potential of psychedelics in addressing mental health and identity issues faced by athletes. Moderated by Aubrey Marcus, the conversation delved into topics of trauma, healing, and the transformative power of substances like ayahuasca
The physical demands of professional football are immense, with players frequently suffering from concussions and other head injuries. According to reports, the NFL witnessed 692 concussions between 2019 and 2023, emphasizing the prevalence of such injuries. These repeated impacts can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a severe neurodegenerative disease. Research has shown that repeated head trauma significantly affects cognitive and behavioral functions, making the search for effective treatments critical
During the panel, the players discussed how psychedelics have helped them explore their identities and improve their mental health. For instance, Jordan Poyer and Jon Feliciano shared how these substances facilitated a deeper connection with their families and helped manage alcohol use. Robert Gallery also emphasized the role of psychedelics in his post-football life, highlighting their potential to address issues that conventional medicine often overlooks
Despite the growing interest in psychedelics, scientific evidence regarding their efficacy in treating brain injuries remains limited. Preliminary studies suggest that compounds like psilocybin and DMT may promote neuroplasticity and reduce inflammation, but large-scale human trials are still needed. Experts caution that the effects of psychedelics might be influenced by the context and rituals involved in their use, complicating the assessment of their true impact
The discussion in Denver reflects a broader cultural shift towards acceptance of alternative therapies among athletes. Public figures like Aaron Rodgers have openly advocated for the benefits of psychedelics, sparking debates within the sports community. This trend extends beyond football, with athletes from other sports also exploring psychedelics for pain management and mental health. As the conversation around these substances evolves, it highlights the growing intersection of sports, medicine, and self-discovery