Psilocybin for depression could help brain break out of a rut, scientists say

Research shows effects of compound found in magic mushrooms can be seen weeks after treatment

The psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms helps to open up depressed people's brains and make them less fixed in negative thinking patterns, research suggests.

According to the findings, psilocybin makes the brain more flexible, working differently to regular antidepressants, even weeks after use. Researchers say the findings indicate that psilocybin could be a viable alternative to depression treatments.