You’ve probably heard the phrase “nervous breakdown,” but it might not be clear what this term means. While some people may joke about having a nervous breakdown or talk about it casually, a nervous breakdown can be a significant crisis that requires attention.
This article will explore what it means to have a nervous breakdown. You will learn:
- What the term “nervous breakdown” means
- The signs of a nervous breakdown
- What may cause a mental breakdown
- What kind of treatment can help
- Where to find mental health treatment and support
If you or someone you love lives with mental health symptoms or require treatment for a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the compassionate specialists at Agape Behavioral Health. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Nervous Breakdown?
A nervous breakdown is a kind of mental health crisis. While it is not an official medical diagnosis, a mental breakdown can be a sign of intense or overwhelming stress. It can also signify someone is living with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that are beyond their coping ability.
A nervous breakdown can mean different things to each person. Generally, though, it means experiencing intense physical and emotional stress that impacts daily functioning. It might feel like being overwhelmed, exhausted, overly anxious, or depressed.
Signs of a Mental Breakdown
The signs and symptoms of a mental breakdown can vary from person to person. Mental health professionals may break down the signs of a mental breakdown into separate categories. Here is a quick overview of some symptoms of a nervous or mental breakdown.
Withdrawal
Mental breakdowns can cause people to withdraw from society. This might include:
- Not taking part in hobbies or social activities
- Missing work or class more often
- Skipping meals or eating an unhealthy diet
- Sleeping too much or not sleeping enough
- Not getting exercise
- Neglecting your hygiene
- Not wanting to leave your home or spend time with others
- Skipping social events, appointments, or other outings
Increasing isolation or loss of interest in relationships may signal a mental breakdown.
Anxiety
Increasing anxiety may be a sign of a nervous breakdown. Some of the symptoms may include:
- Struggling to fall or stay asleep
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Trembling
- Tightness in the chest or throat
- Agitation or restlessness
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness
- Pain without a physical cause
- A sense of uneasiness
- Frequent nightmares
- Cold or clammy hands
- Panic attacks
People may struggle with stress and anxiety before or during a mental breakdown.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. During a mental breakdown, people may experience depression symptoms that impact daily life, including:
- Feeling down, sad, or hopeless
- Difficulty maintaining focus and concentration
- Mood swings, including angry outbursts or frustration
- Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Depression is common among people experiencing a nervous breakdown. Be aware of new or worsening depression symptoms.
Other
Sometimes, people may experience other symptoms during a nervous breakdown, including:
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Flashbacks from a traumatic event
These symptoms can be a clear sign that someone needs mental health treatment and support.
What Causes a Nervous Breakdown?
A nervous breakdown can occur when mental health symptoms or stressors overwhelm a person’s coping skills. While this is not a medical term, a mental breakdown is a sign that someone requires treatment and support. It may also indicate someone is living with a mental illness.
Some things that may contribute to a nervous breakdown include:
- An undiagnosed mental health condition
- Recent challenges, such as the death of a loved one, breakup of a relationship, financial or legal difficulties, etc.
- Family or relationship issues
- Intense or ongoing stress at work or school
- Long periods without a break or relaxation
- A new or worsening medical condition
There is no specific amount of stress that can cause a nervous breakdown. A mental breakdown can occur whenever stress overwhelms a person’s ability to cope with it.
What Treatment is Available for a Nervous Breakdown?
One of the most effective ways to treat a nervous breakdown is to engage in talk therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common forms of therapy people can use to manage a nervous breakdown.
In CBT, people work with a licensed mental health provider to address their stress in practical ways. They may explore their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions and learn new stress-reducing strategies.
Lifestyle changes and holistic practices can help reduce the risk of burnout or a nervous breakdown. These may include:
- Relaxation techniques, including breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation
- Good nutrition, including eating regularly focusing on good nutrition
- Yoga to improve the mind-body connection
- Regular exercise to reduce stress and improve self-esteem
- Mindfulness practices, including visualization exercises and quieting the mind and body
In some cases, mental health practitioners may prescribe anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medications to help people manage their symptoms effectively.
Find Mental Health Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs mental health treatment or support, reach out to the team at Agape Behavioral Health. Our intake team can help you find the programs and support you need to address your mental health challenges. Contact our specialists to learn about our programs, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
