Earlier this month, Medical Observer ran a feature looking at whether it’s time for a change in thinking about psychedelics on the back of new research pointing to their benefit in treating psychiatric disorders. Here the researchers we spoke to reveal more about the emerging evidence base.

An estimated one in 10 Australians were taking antidepressants in 2015. That’s double the number of people who were using them in 2000, and the second-highest rate of antidepressant use among all OECD countries.

Yet some studies have found antidepressants might be no more effective than placebo.

Not only does this mean many Australians aren’t experiencing relief from their psychological distress, but some may also be contending with adverse side effects from their medications.