Veterans Back Trump’s Psychedelic Treatment for PTSD
President Donald Trump has taken a significant step by signing an executive order that encourages research into the use of psychedelics for treating PTSD and other mental health issues. This move has garnered support from many, especially among veterans. Notable figures like former Energy Secretary Rick Perry and retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell have expressed their backing for this approach. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty McCulley has also discussed the potential for this to be a groundbreaking treatment.
In a separate story, former Netflix executive Kevin Bailey is suing the company. He claims he was dismissed from his role in the Eyeliner studio division in April after revealing his experience with medically supervised ketamine therapy to treat his depression during a work retreat. Documents from the case, reported on by the New York Post, indicate that his disclosure was a crucial reason for his termination.
Bailey, who previously served as vice president and head of visual effects, reportedly earned around $1.1 million annually. According to his lawsuit, Netflix also delayed his severance payments for a year post-termination, which dates back to January, over comments he made during a retreat in Northern California.
He shared that he had undergone ketamine therapy at a clinic in Santa Barbara in 2022 while dealing with severe depression following the passing of his mother. The treatment had been prescribed and overseen by medical professionals, as detailed in the report.
Trump’s Order for FDA Review on Psychedelic Drugs
Bailey’s situation unfolded during a team-building exercise at Netflix, designed to encourage openness among employees. When Bailey discussed his treatment, Netflix’s investigators reportedly misconstrued it as an endorsement for recreational drug use. His attorneys highlighted this misrepresentation in the complaint.
The investigation also looked into allegations of Bailey using profanity and possibly being under the influence of alcohol at work. Despite previous feedback about his language, it seems there was no explicit instruction to eliminate swearing entirely, as noted in his performance review.
Interestingly, the review mentioned he could reduce his use of profanity but did not expect him to stop altogether.
More on Bailey’s Case
Additionally, during a team retreat, Bailey recounted amusing anecdotes, including a story about how his ex-stepfather taught him to drink Guinness while doing a handstand. After sharing this story, colleagues encouraged him to demonstrate, which he did, going against the idea of holding back during the trust-building exercise.
Netflix’s cultural approach promotes a blend of vulnerability and openness, likening its environment to that of a professional sports team rather than a familial atmosphere. Part of this involves a “keeper test” where managers evaluate whether they would advocate for an employee’s retention.
For Bailey, the stakes are high. He’s pursuing a jury trial along with claims for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. He’s previously contributed to significant visual effects projects, including the Pirates of the Caribbean and Harry Potter franchises.
As of now, Netflix has not publicly responded to Bailey’s allegations, and attempts to obtain comments from both him and the company have been met with silence.
