After serving as a Navy SEAL, Jonathan “Johnny” Wilson faced immense challenges adapting to civilian life. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) haunted him, stemming from his time in Iraq and Afghanistan. Struggling to find relief, he turned to alcohol, leading to isolation and a sense of disconnect from his loved ones.
Wilson recalls hitting rock bottom. “I lost purpose, my team, and my passion for life,” he told Military.com. Conventional therapies offered little hope. However, a groundbreaking ibogaine treatment transformed his outlook. Though some view ibogaine as controversial, it helped Wilson regain his footing and inspired him to encourage other veterans to explore new methods of healing.
Seeking to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health, Wilson developed the INVI (Invisible-Visible) MindHealth app. This tool collects biometric data, allowing users to track their mental health in real-time. It’s designed for those who may not recognize their struggles or feel comfortable opening up to friends.
He noted, “With data, I could ask my buddies what’s going on instead of accepting their ‘I’m fine’ answer.” By fostering a culture of accountability, his app hopes to help users confront mental health challenges before they spiral out of control.
Recently, INVI received significant recognition as part of ARPA-H’s EVIDENT initiative, a federal project aimed at improving behavioral health metrics. This funding marks a step towards developing reliable tools for mental health assessment, echoing a growing awareness of veterans’ needs.
Many veterans face mental health disorders. Statistics reveal that about 30% meet the criteria for such conditions, yet many choose not to disclose their struggles, even to those closest to them.
After leaving the Navy, Wilson initially found work in finance but struggled with feelings of inadequacy and purpose. The loss of close friends during service acted as a catalyst for his return to the military. “Where do our skills translate? I found purpose through mental health work,” he said.
Wilson’s PTSD led to hyper-vigilance, making ordinary experiences overwhelming. He had to remind himself that he shouldn’t respond negatively to his family’s trivial actions. A frustrating visit to the Department of Veterans Affairs pushed him to pursue alternative treatments, including psychedelic-assisted therapy, which he once doubted.
He witnessed a friend’s drastic transformation through psychedelics, igniting hope that these methods could help him too. “I thought, what do I have to lose?” Wilson said, highlighting the growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, which is increasingly supported by research.
His MindScore feature monitors stress, sleep, and mood. By synthesizing data from various wearable devices, the app provides insights into users’ mental health trends. Wilson aims to collaborate with healthcare providers, specifically the VA, to integrate INVI’s platform into veteran services.
Ultimately, Wilson’s journey emphasizes the need for evolving mental health resources, especially for veterans. He hopes his work will aid others in their battles, offering a sense of connection and purpose. As we rethink mental health strategies, technology and personal experiences play crucial roles in paving the way for a brighter future.
For more information about mental health and treatment options, you can visit Mental Health America.
