Experiencing a nervous breakdown can severely impact your ability to function in daily life. Here’s what you can do when faced with a nervous breakdown.
At times, life events can become so emotionally and physically overwhelming that they lead to a nervous breakdown. Known as a mental or emotional breakdown, it involves intense psychological distress that impairs normal functioning due to extreme stress and disrupted sleep patterns. Let’s delve into what a nervous breakdown entails and how to address it.
What is a nervous breakdown?
Though not a clinical term, a nervous breakdown is a layperson’s description of a severe mental health crisis, explains psychologist Neha Dutt. It typically manifests as sudden overwhelming stress, emotions, and an inability to cope, resulting in a significant disruption of one’s normal functioning. The duration of a nervous breakdown varies depending on the individual, crisis severity, and effectiveness of interventions, lasting anywhere from hours to months if left untreated.
![A woman having a nervous breakdown A woman having a nervous breakdown](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/04/17142758/stress1-370x207.jpg)
A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health expert typically leads to a nervous breakdown diagnosis. This evaluation involves a thorough assessment of symptoms, medical history, and any underlying mental health conditions.
What are the symptoms of a nervous breakdown?
Crying may occur during a nervous breakdown. According to a 2016 study published in the Sage Journals, stress, fatigue, and sleep disturbances may increase crying episodes. Other symptoms of a nervous breakdown include:
- Severe anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Overwhelming stress
- Emotional numbness or detachment insomnia or excessive sleep
- Inability to concentrate
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Feelings of hopelessness or despair Thoughts of self-harm
What are the causes of a nervous breakdown?
Nervous breakdowns can stem from various stressors, including:
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- Chronic stress
- Traumatic life events such as loss of a loved one, divorce or unemployment
- Underlying mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders
- Substance abuse
- Overwhelming responsibilities
- Lack of social support
- Poor coping skills.
What to do if you are on the verge of a nervous breakdown?
If you feel on the verge of a nervous breakdown, consider the following steps:
1. Time out
If you find yourself in an overwhelmingly stressful situation, take a personal time out. Remove yourself from the environment to allow your mind and body to calm down.
2. Practice deep breathing exercises
Breathe deeply through your nose, holding for two seconds before exhaling slowly. Repeat this process until you feel more at ease. Engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation can also be beneficial, advises Dutt.
3. Consult a doctor
If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to your doctor for help. A therapist or psychiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment options. Cognitive-behavioural therapy and other forms of talk therapy can help identify and address underlying issues and develop effective coping strategies.
4. Support system
Turn to understanding family members or friends for comfort during stressful periods. Consider joining support groups for additional assistance.
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5. Consider medication
If prescribed by a psychiatrist, consider taking medications to help manage symptoms. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs can aid in symptom relief and mood stabilisation.
![A woman having a nervous breakdown A woman having a nervous breakdown](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2023/10/17151606/Stress-3-370x207.jpg)
How to support someone having a nervous breakdown?
If not you, your family or friends may need help.
- Provide a safe space for them to express their feelings and concerns without fear of criticism.
- Assist with daily tasks or responsibilities to reduce their stress levels.
- Suggest therapy or psychiatric evaluation and offer to accompany them to appointments if necessary.
- Support them throughout their recovery journey, as setbacks may occur, requiring ongoing assistance.
- Educate yourself about mental health conditions and treatment options to better understand their needs.
- Supporting someone with a nervous breakdown can be emotionally challenging, so prioritize your own self-care and seek support when needed.
How to prevent nervous breakdown?
While it may not always be possible to prevent a nervous breakdown, certain strategies can help reduce the risk:
- Regularly practice stress management techniques.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep.
- Build strong social support networks.
- Set realistic goals and priorities to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Learn to say no to excessive demands and share tasks with others when possible.
While anyone can experience a nervous breakdown, it’s crucial to understand how to manage stress effectively.