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Magic mushrooms and mental health

Could psychedelic drugs help in the treatment of mental health conditions?

Could psychedelic drugs help in the treatment of mental health conditions? We look at pioneering research into psilocybin, the active ingredient in so-called magic mushrooms. We visit a clinic in Oregon, the only state in America where the use of psilocybin in therapeutic sessions is legal and hear from one patient who says it's the only treatment she's ever had that makes a difference to her depression. And we hear about some of the widespread concerns that widening access to such drugs could have.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporter: Ben Wyatt
Series Producer: Jon Bithrey
Editor: Sam Bonham
Sound Mix: Annie Gardiner

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24 minutes

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