Introduction
Mystical experiences, characterized by profound feelings of unity, transcendence, and altered states of consciousness, have long been subjects of interest in both religious studies and psychology. These experiences can significantly impact individuals' worldviews and life perspectives, often associated with lasting changes in attitudes, behaviors, and personal well-being. Given the complexity and subjective nature of these experiences, quantifying them presents a considerable challenge.
The Revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ-30) was developed to address this need by providing a systematic and empirical method of assessment. The MEQ-30, an adaptation of earlier versions of the questionnaire, focuses on the core components of mystical experiences as identified in psychological literature. It assesses these experiences across four primary dimensions: mystical, positive mood, transcendence of time and space, and ineffability.
The questionnaire is comprised of 30 items which respondents rate based on their most intense mystical experience, regardless of the context in which it occurred—be it spontaneous, induced by meditation, or facilitated by psychedelic substances. Each item aims to capture the essence and intensity of these dimensions, asking participants to reflect on their experiences of unity with the ultimate reality, feelings of ecstasy and peace, perceptions of timelessness, and the indescribable nature of their experience.
Widely utilized in clinical research, particularly in studies exploring the therapeutic applications of psychedelic drugs, the MEQ-30 has proven valuable. It helps quantify changes in consciousness that can lead to significant psychological shifts and improvements in mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The validation of the MEQ-30 through empirical studies underscores its reliability and the relevance of mystical experiences in psychological research and practice.
The Revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire serves as a critical tool in the scientific study of mystical experiences. It allows researchers and clinicians to quantitatively assess these profound phenomena and better understand their potential therapeutic benefits. As interest in the psychological implications of mystical experiences grows, instruments like the MEQ-30 are indispensable for advancing our knowledge and application of these extraordinary states of consciousness.
Instructions
Looking back on the entirety of your psilocybin session, please rate the degree to which at any time during that session you experienced the following phenomena. Answer each question according to your feelings, thoughts, and experiences at the time of the psilocybin session. In making each of your ratings, use the following scale:
Scoring and result metrics
The result page reports a local screening score for this questionnaire. Use the score range, any subscale scores, and the interpretation band together rather than treating one number as a diagnosis.
- Score range
- 0-150
- Items scored
- 30
- Result indicators
- Total score / Interpretation band when available
Score interpretation bands
- 0-36Low range
Your score falls in the lower range for this screening tool.
- 37-73Mild range
Your score falls in a mild or lower-middle range. Consider the result alongside your current context.
- 74-111Moderate range
Your score falls in a moderate range. If the symptoms are distressing, consider speaking with a qualified professional.
- 112-150Higher range
Your score falls in a higher range for this screening tool. This is not a diagnosis, but it may be worth discussing with a clinician.
Interpretation bands summarize screening thresholds from the questionnaire source material. Higher scores usually indicate more of the measured concern unless the tool notes a different scoring rule.
Tool information
- Version
- MEQ-30, existing 30-item self-report
- Administration
- Self-report about a specified past experience
- Intended audience
- Adults aged 18 or above and research participants reflecting on one specific past altered-state or mystical-type experience
Sources
Related tests
Explore related screening tools in the same topic area.
Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES-II)
Complete the 28-item DES-II to calculate a private 0-100 screening score. A score above 30 may support further professional assessment but is not a diagnosis.
Shutdown Dissociation Scale (SHUT-D)
Take the Shut-D online test to assess dissociative responses to trauma. A guided, research-based tool for understanding complex psychological symptoms.
Big 5 Personality Test (FFM)
Assess your personality with the Big 5 Test, exploring how you score in five key traits that influence behavior and preferences.