Susan Collins Quizzes Casey Means on Past Shrooms Use

"I believe what I would say as a private citizen is in many cases different than what I would say as a public health official. Joining a team where the purpose of this role is to communicate absolutely the best evidence-based science to the American people to keep them safe, thriving, and healthy."

"When it comes to psychedelic therapy for mental health issues, I think the science is still emerging, and so it would certainly not be a recommendation to the American people to do that under no circumstances. I do believe that there is exciting work being done in this area that needs to continue on psychedelic therapies for PTSD and veterans for mental health issues."

"There is no way I would recommend that to the American people in this role. Our illicit drug use problem in this country is monumental and severe, and I look forward to working with you on the [addressing this crisis]."

During Senate confirmation hearings, Senator Susan Collins questioned Surgeon General nominee Casey Means about her 2021 use of psychedelic mushrooms documented in her book. Collins asked whether Means stood by encouraging psychedelic use and how she would address illicit drug problems as surgeon general. Means clarified that her personal views differ from her role as a public health official. She stated that while emerging research on psychedelic therapy for PTSD and mental health shows promise, she would not recommend illicit psychedelics to the American public. Means emphasized her commitment to communicating evidence-based science to keep Americans safe and healthy, acknowledging the severity of the nation's illicit drug crisis.

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