The suggestions in the links below have been gathered from listening to people who have been through spiritual crisis and seeing what they have found helpful. Bear in mind that what works for one person may not for another. Each person's experience is unique and they will have their own sense of what feels right and what is needed.

Spiritual crisis can be overwhelming and confusing. However, many people consider it to be a recognised part of spiritual growth.

It can be reassuring to know that other people have experienced something similar. It's useful to have a context for understanding the experience. Finding a framework could be supported by talking to a spiritual teacher or through reading.

Browse more: Booklist, Grounding, Community resources, environment and spiritual practices

Ten top tips for surviving spiritual crisis

1. A natural process: Remember that altered states of consciousness, psychic or spiritual experiences are natural aspects of being human. States where the boundaries between inner and outer worlds become looser can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth.

2. Fear and Panic: These are common feelings at time of crisis. Try to relax and keep stress levels low. Take long slow outbreaths and remember that this stage will pass.

3. Stay focused: Drifting or states where you are less focused on the everyday world will leave you more open to unusual experiences. This is a time to let go of intensive meditation or spiritual practice.

4. Food: If eating is difficult, make sure you have regular fluid and nutritious snacks to keep your blood sugar levels up.

5. Sleep: This may be difficult and disturbed. Don’t panic. Rest is almost as good as sleep. Reduce caffeine and other stimulants to ensure that you get as much rest as you can. And don’t worry, this phase will pass.

6. Isolation: Keep in touch with people around you even if you do not feel like it. Isolation can lead you further into unshared reality and bizarre experiences (although beware of critical or judgemental people as toxic interactions and relationships can make everything worse).

7. Stay grounded: Keep your feet on the ground – it is easy to get lost in your head. Bring yourself into the present moment – notice what you are experiencing now – your body, your breathing, what you can see and hear. Focus on tasks in the present.

8. Sudden Decisions: Go slow with these right now. Our judgement can let us down at these times, so now might not be the time to end that significant relationship or make that important business or financial decision.

9. Communication: Be careful what you say and to whom. It is easy to alarm other people without meaning to with disastrous consequences. If in doubt, keep quiet!

10. Finding a meaning: Don’t worry if all this feels confusing right now. It will be easier to make sense of it all once the crisis has passed. There will be a meaning in there somewhere but finding it can take time and you may need to be patient. Take it easy on yourself!