Spiritual Emergency

When Personal Transformation Becomes a Crisis

Increasing numbers of people involved in personal transformation are experiencing spiritual emergencies - crises when the process of growth and change becomes chaotic and overwhelming. Individuals experiencing such episodes may feel that their sense of identity is breaking down, that their old values no longer hold true, and that the very ground beneath their personal realities is radically shifting. They may feel tremendous anxiety, have difficulty coping with their daily lives, jobs, and relationships, and may even fear for their own sanity.

Unfortunately, much of modern psychiatry has failed to distinguish these episodes from mental illness. As a result, transformational crises are often suppressed by routine psychiatric care, medication, and even institutionalization. When understood and treated in a supportive manner, spiritual emergencies can become gateways to higher levels of functioning and new ways of being.

In this book, foremost psychologists, psychiatrists, and spiritual teachers address the following questions: What is spiritual emergency? What is the relationship between spirituality, "madness", and healing? What forms does spiritual emergency take? What are the pitfalls - and promises - of spiritual practice? How can people in spiritual emergency be assisted by family, friends, and professionals?

©1989 Stanislav Grof and Christina Grof (Introduction, Epilogue, "Spiritual Emergency: Understanding Evolutionary Crisis", "Assistance in Spiritual Emergency", and all introductory material) (P)2021 Tantor

Thrilling and relevant

I found much of the content gripping and very relevant to my own experience and work. The bibliography at the end is a gold mine.

The presentation of the concepts were provided in an understandable, relatable way.

The references provide of those who contributed to the book. It allowed for continuation of study.