World News for Students of English

25-08-2025 07:00

In Melbourne, researchers have completed Australia’s first clinical trial of psychedelic-assisted therapy for people with terminal illnesses.

The study involved 35 participants, who received psilocybin, the active compound in “magic mushrooms”, together with psychotherapy. Results showed significant reductions in depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and psychological distress, while many also experienced reconciliation, forgiveness, and peace when facing death. Although small, the trial has been highly promising.

Michael Quinn, a cancer patient, took part and found the treatment helped him manage his fear and frustration, becoming calmer during his final months. His wife Pat said it ‘softened the edges’ of his suffering. Patients typically spent long sessions in quiet rooms with music, guided by clinicians, and took two doses weeks apart. However, experts stress that this treatment is not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain psychiatric conditions.

Researchers now aim to expand access, though cost and time make the therapy difficult to provide widely. Still, it offers new hope for improving the quality of life.

Difficult words: psychedelic (a type of drug that changes how people see, feel, and think), magic mushrooms (a kind of mushroom that changes feelings and senses when eaten), reconciliation (becoming friends again after a conflict).

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