‘Psychedelics renaissance’: new wave of research puts hallucinogenics forward to treat mental health

In what's been described as a paradigm shifter' for psychiatry, Australian clinical trials are exploring the therapeutic benefits of illegal substances

It was out of desperation that Michael Raymond found himself sitting in a remote retreat in the Peruvian Andes, sipping a cup of bitter tea.

Raymond had reached breaking point. His 16-year career as an electrical engineer in high-security situations for the Australian air force had seen him deal with near-death experiences, crashes, casualties and the aftermath of human remains".