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Psychedelic Preparedness Scale

A 20-item self-report measure of how psychologically, physically and socially ready a person is for a psychedelic experience. It takes about five minutes.

Before you begin

This questionnaire is for information and self-reflection only. It is not medical, psychological or legal advice, and it cannot tell you whether a psychedelic experience is safe or suitable for you.

This page does not encourage or endorse the use of psychedelic substances. Many are illegal in most countries, and they carry real risks, especially for people with a personal or family history of psychosis or bipolar disorder, heart conditions, or those taking certain medications (such as some antidepressants or lithium). Please speak with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions.

A high score does not mean you are safe to proceed, and a low score is not a diagnosis. The scale was validated in research settings and is meant to be used alongside a full clinical assessment, not in place of one.

If you are in distress or crisis, contact your local emergency number or a crisis line in your area.

Which experience are you rating?

The scale has two validated versions with the same items, worded for before or after the experience.

    Your preparedness profile

    –out of 140

    The PPS has no published cut-off scores. Higher scores mean greater preparedness. In the validation studies, people scoring above the sample median reported more positive experiences and outcomes than those below it. The authors stress that the scale is not a standalone diagnostic tool and should sit alongside a fuller clinical assessment.

    Next: set an intention

    Notice which area came out lowest. The intention practice can help you explore what that part of your preparation needs, by listening to how it feels in your body.

    Begin the intention practice →

    Disclaimer

    This site is for educational and self-reflection purposes only. It is not medical, psychological or legal advice, and using it doesn't create a therapist–client or any other professional relationship.

    Psychedelics carry real risks, especially for people with a personal or family history of psychosis or bipolar disorder, people with heart conditions, and people taking certain medications. Nothing here can tell you whether a psychedelic experience is safe or right for you. Please talk with a qualified health professional before making any decisions.

    Many psychedelic substances are illegal in Canada, the United States and elsewhere. This site does not encourage or promote illegal activity, and it doesn't offer information about obtaining or using any substance.

    The tools and information here are provided as-is, without guarantees of accuracy or suitability, and you use them at your own risk.

    If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call your local emergency number. In Canada and the United States, you can call or text 988 at any time.