Veterans Support Trump’s Order on Psychedelic Drug Research for PTSD

President Donald Trump signed an executive order that promotes research into psychedelic drugs for treating PTSD and other mental health issues. This decision has gained support, particularly from military veterans. Notable advocates include former Energy Secretary Rick Perry and retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, who see promise in these treatments. Dr. Marty Makary from the FDA discusses the potential of these psychedelic therapies to bring significant advancements in mental health treatment.

Meanwhile, former Netflix executive Kevin Baillie has filed a lawsuit against his former employer, as reported by The New York Post. The lawsuit claims Baillie was dismissed in April after disclosing his participation in medically supervised ketamine therapy for depression during a workplace retreat.

The lawsuit states that Baillie, who held the position of vice president and head of creative at Netflix’s Eyeline Studios, earned approximately $1.1 million annually. After his dismissal, allegedly a result of his disclosure, Netflix denied him severance pay for up to one year.

Baillie’s ketamine therapy took place at a clinic in Santa Barbara in 2022, following his mother’s death. The medication was administered under medical supervision. The lawsuit indicates that during a vulnerability exercise, Baillie shared details about his therapy, which were later viewed suspiciously by a Netflix investigator as potential recreational drug use.

The investigation also focused on accusations of profanity and alcohol consumption. A prior performance review acknowledged Baillie’s language but did not prohibit him from using strong language entirely.

The performance review reportedly included the advice, “Drop one or two less f-bombs but don’t stop entirely.”

The lawsuit also mentions that during the retreat, Baillie described how his former father-in-law taught him to drink a Guinness while standing on his head, a demonstration colleagues urged him to perform at the retreat.

Netflix maintains a workplace culture that encourages vulnerability and openness, comparing itself to a professional sports team. A “keeper test” assesses whether employees are retained based on if managers would fight to keep them or hire them again.

Ketamine, a Schedule III controlled substance, is federally approved as an anesthetic and occasionally prescribed off-label for depression. The FDA has approved a ketamine-derived nasal spray, Spravato, for treatment-resistant depression.

Baillie seeks a jury trial and aims to recover lost wages, compensatory and punitive damages, and damages for emotional distress. Netflix had not publicly responded to these allegations as of Monday.

Baillie previously worked on visual effects for major film franchises such as “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Harry Potter.” Efforts to reach him and Netflix for comments were unsuccessful.