Integration of the Psychedelic Experience Among Brazilians: A Survey Study

This study examines psychedelic integration among Brazilian users by validating a Brazilian Portuguese version of the Psychedelic Integration Scales (PIS), developed through translation and cultural adaptation to ensure relevance and applicability within the Brazilian sociocultural context. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1379 participants recruited online. Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported a unidimensional structure for the Brazilian version of the scale (PIS-BR), with satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.95) and strong evidence of validity based on the relationship with external variables with mystical experience (r = 0.636, p < .01) and positivity (r = 0.352, p < .01). Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses, supported by AI-assisted methods and reviewed by researchers, identified diverse integration strategies, including personal reflection and self-analysis, psychotherapy and professional support, spiritual and meditative practices, connection with nature, social sharing and support networks, personal and relational transformation, and difficulties in integration. This study contributes to understanding psychedelic integration processes in a culturally distinct context. Despite limitations related to sampling and cross-sectional design, the findings provide valuable insights for future research on the conceptualization, measurement, and cultural variability of psychedelic integration beyond the acute effects of these experiences.