| Psilocybin, a hallucinogen found in more than 200 species of “magic mushrooms” was defined by the UN’s 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances as a drug with high potential for abuse and not recognized for medical use. But in recent years, studies have shown that it can relieve severe depression when taken in conjunction with psychotherapy. This week, New Zealand allowed the prescription of medicinal psilocybin outside of clinical trials for the first time. David Seymour, New Zealand’s Associate Minister for Health, said his government is giving Kiwis greater access to more treatments, including granting a very “highly experienced” psychiatrist the authority to prescribe psilocybin to patients with treatment-resistant depression. New Zealand’s move makes it one of a handful countries where specific psychiatrists are authorized to prescribe psilocybin for mental disease treatments, including Australia, Switzerland and Canada. “This is huge for people with depression who’ve tried everything else and are still suffering.” Seymour said in a statement, which didn’t state when the policy shift would take effect. “If a doctor believes psilocybin can help, they should have the tools to try.” Psilocybin can cause euphoria, changes in perception, perceived spiritual experiences and feelings of detachment, according to American Society for Microbiology. When given under medical supervision in controlled conditions, however, the substance can be useful in treating various mental conditions, like depression, research has shown. Seymour also announced that melatonin, a hormone that helps induce sleep, will become available over the counter for all adults in the country. It had been classified as a prescription-only medicine in New Zealand, with a few melatonin products approved for people aged over 55 to get over the counter. “Kiwis shouldn’t be left counting sheep or desperate for options when other countries are already using these medicines,” Seymour said. — Karoline Kan | 
