Exploring Mental Health Solutions: “Psychedelics: Stepping into the Unknown” Debuts on SBS
In a bold exploration of mental health treatments, SBS is set to air the compelling documentary, “Psychedelics: Stepping into the Unknown”, as part of the acclaimed Australia Uncovered series in late February. This documentary delves into the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy to combat the widespread issue of anxiety, a prevalent mental health concern affecting Australians between 16 and 85, as highlighted by recent ABS statistics.
At the forefront of this pioneering research is Dr. Paul Liknaitzky, who leads Australia’s inaugural clinical psychedelic research lab at Monash University. Dr. Liknaitzky’s team is conducting a revolutionary trial using psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in ‘magic mushrooms’, to treat Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
“Psychedelics: Stepping into the Unknown” has been granted unparalleled access to follow this two-year trial. The documentary introduces viewers to the individuals participating in the trial, showcasing their struggles with anxiety and their journey through the treatment process, which includes psychedelic dosing sessions and in-depth therapy. Their stories are depicted with honesty and bravery, highlighting transformative experiences.
As the trial wraps up, the impact on the participants’ lives is profound, marking a promising step forward in the realm of psychedelic therapy. Dr. Liknaitzky and his team at Monash University, along with countless Australians battling mental health issues, stand on the cusp of a new therapeutic horizon.
The documentary’s producers, Darren Dale and Jacob Hickey, expressed their motivation for the project, stating, “We know that millions of us will suffer from anxiety and other mental health illnesses at some point in our lives. The possibility that psychedelic assisted therapy could potentially offer hope is a fascinating prospect and one that we wanted to interrogate and explore. Gaining access to a world first trial has been extraordinary and it’s been a privilege to document its progress and the lives of those involved.”
Produced by Blackfella Films for SBS with primary funding from Screen Australia and additional support from VicScreen, “Psychedelics: Stepping into the Unknown” is a notable addition to Australia Uncovered. The series itself kicks off its third season with “Hitler’s Jewish Soldier?” on Thursday 8 February, with “Psychedelics: Stepping into the Unknown” premiering on Thursday 29 February at 8:40 pm, available on SBS and SBS On Demand.
