Could some forms of psychological adversity be a blessing in disguise?

Spirituality has been described as an ambivalent experience. On the one hand, due to its soothing affective potential, spirituality has been lauded by medical science as the most protective factor against depression and other mental disorders. On the other hand, however, spirituality can lead to spiritual emergencies and other mental disorders. This paper provides scientific explanation to the ambivalent nature of spirituality and why spiritual emergencies and other mental disorders can be a blessing in disguise as they can significantly increase the possibility of spiritual growth and a more robust mental wellbeing. Implications for mental health practice is also discussed.