Psychedelics Might Have Same Efficacy as Antidepressants, 2026 Study Suggests

When it comes to treating depression, psychedelics might be just as effective as antidepressants, according to a recent study.

Balázs Szigeti at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and his colleagues studied 24 trials. 8 examined psychedelic-assisted therapy (the combined treatment of psychotherapy and psychedelics), while the remaining 16 were open-label trials for traditional antidepressants.

“Our results do not disprove the exciting results about psychedelic treatments,” Szigeti told New Scientist.

“We also show that psychedelics are effective at treating depression; it is just that they are not more effective than open-label traditional antidepressants, which feels underwhelming given the attention [on psychedelics].”

However, some experts claim the jury is “still out scientifically” — calling for psychedelics to be compared head-to-head against antidepressants, not just placebos.

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Disability Benefits for Depression in Canada

Depression can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform their job duties — even with appropriate treatment.

For Canadians who can’t work due to this debilitating condition, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How These Benefits Help

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims — including in cases involving depression — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• Medical Conditions that Qualify for Disability in Canada
• Denied LTD? Seek Legal Advice Before Appealing the Decision
• Pocket Disability Lawyer: Real-Time Insights on Your Rights
• Canada Post Worker Denied LTD During Cancer Battle

Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.