10 Signs And Symptoms Of A Nervous Breakdown

When a person is showing signs or symptoms of a nervous or mental breakdown, it means that the affected individual has reached his or her “limit” under an extremely stressful situation. During this time, the person may not be able to function normally or effectively in day-to-day life. Normally, signs and symptoms of a nervous breakdown indicate demands in everyday life have become physically, emotionally and mentally overwhelming.

Definition

The term “nervous breakdown” or “mental breakdown” tends to be commonly used to describe a wide spectrum of mental disorders. However, they are not clinically recognized as medical terms, and having one or the other does not necessarily mean that the individual has a mental disorder; most so-called “signs” usually signify symptoms of depression or anxiety.

These breakdowns tend to be temporary, but acute. While they can indicate underlying mental health problems that may need attention, nervous breakdowns can also happen to anyone at any time – and it is a signal for the individual to pause, relax, recuperate or possibly seek professional help.

Signs And Symptoms Of A Nervous Breakdown

Signs or symptoms that indicate a person is possibly facing a nervous breakdown can vary from person to person. Here are 10 more common signs that indicate a person may be facing a nervous breakdown, if they are accompanied by the inability to stay resilient:

1. Signs of depression: Indicators of serious, profound depression can definitely trigger a nervous breakdown. Thoughts of suicide, self-mutilation, loss of interest in life, or loss of all hope are very serious indicators. Professional help should be sought immediately, as a life can be saved.

2. Signs of anxiety: Extreme anxiousness with an abrupt setting may signify the person is experiencing a mental breakdown. Other signs of anxiety, such as high blood pressure, clenched or tensed muscles, clammy hands, trembling or shaking, dizziness or upset stomach all signify the beginning of a nervous breakdown. These signs and symptoms are typically triggered by fears or phobias.

3. Extreme mood swings: Mood swings that are so serious, they severely affect surrounding individuals is a signal of a nervous breakdown. It can also indicate the possibility of bipolar disorder, a form of mental condition.

4. Hallucination: Seeing the false as truth can be an indicator of a nervous breakdown, as well as other underlying medical conditions. Sometimes, these hallucinations may prove to be harmful for the affected individual as well as his or her surroundings. For example, the affected individual may be imagining a false deity dictating commands to hurt others.

5. Panic attacks: Panic attacks can go hand-in-hand with signs of anxiety. Symptoms may include high blood pressure, pounding chest pain, difficulty breathing, feelings of unreality, an extreme level of fear and detachment from self.

6. Paranoia: Similar to phobias and fear, paranoia can indicate a mental breakdown. The feeling and insecurity of having someone watching and following you can be extremely stressful and mentally detrimental. Seek help if you feel you are really being stalked and have evidence; also seek medical help if you feel like it is only in your head.

7. Lifestyle changes: Significant lifestyle changes, such as changes in the sleep cycle, radical weight gain or loss, lack of hygiene or poor eating habits can indicate a nervous breakdown. Sometimes, a person may initially feel mentally well, but physically unwell due to these involuntary lifestyle changes. In this case, it may be your body signaling the need of a rest or time to recuperate. If these issues are not adjusted, mental stress may follow and lead to a full-blown breakdown.

8. Alienation: People who are facing a nervous breakdown may tend to isolate themselves from others, especially friends and family. Sometimes, they may just need some time to be alone and recuperate from a hectic situation, but when the isolation persists for an extended period of time, this may be an indicator of a possible nervous breakdown. Social settings may cause further stress, so the person may choose to alienate himself or herself.

9. Loss of interest: If a person who used to love his or her work suddenly calls in sick frequently, that individual may be showing signs of depression and can evenutally lead to a nervous breakdown. Loss of interest of things that used to be exciting can spiral out of control if help is not sought. Confide in a close friend or a loved one and seek others for help.

10. Flashbacks of a traumatic event: Often times, traumatic events in a person’s past can trigger symptoms of a nervous breakdown. It can also indicate an underlying case of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Seek the help of a professional if you suspect PTSD is the main contributor to a nervous breakdown.

Bottom Line

If you or someone you know is experiencing intense levels of any signs or symptoms listed above, it is highly advised to seek professional help. While nervous breakdowns may happen to anyone, these signs may also indicate an underlying mental condition - you may end up saving a life.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic
• Professional-Counseling.com