Psychedelic Preparedness
How do you know if you're ready for a psychedelic experience? It's a tough question. Luckily, a group of researchers came up with an assessment, then ran a study to ensure its validity.
20 Questions
The Psychedelic Preparedness Scale (PPS) is a simple, 20 questions assessment developed by a team of researchers at University College London. The initial instrument was created with extensive input from experts in psychedelics from clinical psychiatry, philosophy, and psychedelic research.
Validated Results
The PPS instrument has been psychometrically validated to ensure that it accurately and consistently measures a respondent’s level of preparedness for a psychedelic experience. The researchers showed that the PPS results are correlated with positive psychological effects induced by psychedelics.
“By using the PPS, it is possible to determine whether a participant has generated the appropriate mental ‘set’ and is therefore likely to benefit from a psychedelic experience, or at least, less likely to be harmed.”
Rosalind McAlpine, PhD, et al.University College London, Division of Psychiatry
Four Pillars of Readiness
Knowledge & Expectations
Understanding of the experience, realistic outcome expectations
Intention & Preparation
Clarity of motivation and emotional groundwork
Psychological Readiness
Personal stability, health status, and capacity to navigate altered states
Support Planning
Structures in place for safety, integration, and post-session care
