Stress is natural, and everyone gets overwhelmed occasionally. However, sustained, high-stress levels and unhealthy coping mechanisms can make you vulnerable to a nervous breakdown.
A nervous or mental breakdown describes a period of intense stress, anxiety, and inability to cope with daily life. When examining a patient with such symptoms, medical professionals try to identify the specific issue causing mental stress and exhaustion. It can be life stressors or conditions such as depression, panic disorder, or schizophrenia.
The term “nervous breakdown” is used liberally in conversations, film, and popular culture. You may wonder what exactly qualifies as one and where to seek help if you feel on the verge of it. This article discusses the main things you might want to know about this circumstance.
Seek help early to avoid the aggravation of symptoms. MEDvidi doctors are here to help.
How Does a Nervous Breakdown Feel Like?
A nervous breakdown feels like a system shutdown, which makes a person feel fatigued, helpless, and worthless. The stress and depression become overwhelming, leaving an individual hopeless and unable to enjoy the things and activities he or she loved before.
People experiencing mental breakdowns also can’t seem to focus on anything or even care for themselves. They commonly describe it as a feeling of “falling apart”. This crisis may have different duration, from days to months, and it takes much energy and time to overcome it.
What Can Trigger a Nervous Breakdown
The general trigger of a mental breakdown is intense stress and helplessness to cope with it. Life traumas can cause a mental crisis, including:
- Loss of a loved one
- Financial difficulties like too much debt or a home going into foreclosure
- Relationship changes like separation and divorce
- Job loss
- Pressure in the workplace
- Moving places
- Discrimination
- Mental or physical abuse
- Natural disaster
- Serious illness
Often, the stress from life traumas builds up over time and reaches a level where a person can’t cope or focus on daily life. People without social support or healthy coping mechanisms are more likely to have nervous breakdowns when faced with prolonged stress.
A nervous breakdown can also indicate a person has an underlying
The right diagnosis and proper therapy can help you overcome excessive stress. Get help online at MEDvidi.
Nervous Breakdown Symptoms
The
Physical Symptoms
- Trembling
- Irregular heartbeat
- Feeling sluggish
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Frequent illnesses because stress lowers immune response
- Irregular bowel movements
- Stomachache
- Muscle pain
- Sweating
Psychological Symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating
- Anxiety and irritability
- Panic attacks
- Helplessness and low self-esteem
- Lack of interest or motivation
- Trouble remembering things
- Disturbed sleep
- Suicidal or self-harm thoughts
- Mood swings
- Emotional numbness
Fear - Angry outbursts
- Feeling detached from the body (depersonalization)
Behavioral Changes
- Calling in sick for work regularly or not showing up
- Avoiding social events
- Missing appointments
- Neglecting self-care like not exercising, eating unhealthy foods, and not showering
- Having difficulty interacting with other people
- Losing interest in hobbies a person previously enjoyed
The term mental breakdown is not a medical or official diagnosis. But, it is a serious issue that typically requires professional help or even hospitalization. However, in mild cases, a person can implement certain lifestyle changes to reduce the impact of stress on their mind and body. Some techniques are discussed below.
Treatment Options for Nervous Breakdown
The treatment method for a nervous breakdown depends on the severity of a person’s symptoms and underlying cause. It can include medications for anxiety, insomnia, and
How to Prevent and Cope With a Nervous Breakdown
While the feelings of intense stress may feel never-ending, it is not always possible to prevent a nervous breakdown as it can be triggered by numerous factors including stress, trauma, or mental illness. However, there are several ways to reduce the risk of having it as well as manage the signs of a nervous breakdown.
1. Exercise. Exercise has immense mental benefits as it releases feel-good hormones like
2. Meditate.
3. Do yoga.
4. Practice deep breathing exercises.
5. Be kind to yourself. It is easy to get mad at yourself for being depressed, sad, and anxious, especially when other people seem to be doing well in similar circumstances. However, it is essential to be
6. Seek professional help. If you have been dealing with the symptoms of a nervous breakdown for a while, consult a medical professional. A mental breakdown can indicate an underlying mental health issue that needs treatment. Your doctor or therapist will evaluate your symptoms and determine if you have another condition.
In Conclusion
Most nervous breakdowns arise from stress. So, stress management methods like meditation, physical activity, and yoga can help to cope with it. However, if the negative feelings overwhelm you and interfere with your productivity, it’s time to seek professional help.
