The following is a brief excerpt from
The Stormy Search for the Self by Christina and Stanislav Grof.
Living with someone who is going through a spiritual emergency is often very demanding for everyone involved. Those close to that person, as well as the person him/herself, spend much time and energy on the changes that are being brought into their lives, and friends and family are frequently confronted with their own emotions and limitations. Seemingly normal and stable relationships become threatened by abrupt shifts in one person's interests and behavior that often requires an unwelcome adjustment on the part of others.
Behaviors and Attitudes that Affect Family and Friends Those involved in a transformation process often change his/her daily habits or outward appearance.
An individual who may have been extremely outgoing and social may abruptly become introspective, avoiding social activities or acting in an asocial way.
Sometimes people become so intrigued with their new experiences and insights that they reject the ordinary world as trivial and mundane.
Interests often change and the person may want to discuss their new insights and ideas with anyone within range, sometimes becoming judgmental or impatient with others who do not share their concerns.
Individuals in a transformative process may project or blame their difficulties on others or the circumstances around them.
Sometimes, people use their family or friendships as symbols of the restrictions they are shedding.
The individual may become preoccupied with the issue of death.
Those undergoing a transformative experience may find that their sexual responses change.
They may become extremely intuitive or psychic when relating to those around them.
They may feel guided by meaningful coincidences (synchronicities) that involve those close to them.
How Family and Friends Respond
You may deny that anything is wrong.
You may feel confused.
You may feel helpless.
You may feel afraid.
You may feel threatened.
You may react with guilt.
You may feel shame.
You may become judgmental.
You may find someone or something to blame.
You may reject both the individual and the process itself.
What Family and Friends Can Do to Help
Become aware of your own motivations for providing support.
Allow the transformation process to unfold, and be willing to support it with trust and patience.
Be honest with the other person and yourself.
Suspend your judgment.
Offer frequent reassurance.
Use your intuition.
Avoid giving inappropriate messages.
Become open, receptive, and willing to listen.
Be willing to offer physical comfort.
Allow yourself to be playful and flexible.
Have both male and female helpers on hand, if possible.
What Family and Friends Can Do for Themselves
Educate yourself.
Get support from others.
Determine the degree to which you are willing and able to participate in your loved one's transformation.
Abandon the idea that you can fix or control the situation.
Use the situation as an opportunity to work on yourself.
Pursue activities that provide strength, inspiration, and relief.
Be kind to yourself.
Source: The Stormy Search for the Self
