Both nervous breakdowns and mental breakdowns are terms used to describe a period of extreme mental or emotional distress. They are essentially the same thing. During this period, you may be unable to function or perform normal day-to-day activities, such as going to work or school or caring for yourself or others.
Although a nervous breakdown is not an official medical diagnosis, the term is still commonly used during a period of intense emotional symptoms like panic, anxiety, and distress.
They can be severely traumatic and overwhelming events that have been linked to wider mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
What are the causes?
There is no one cause of a nervous breakdown. Anything that leads to excessive stress can trigger it. In general, feeling stress and being unable to cope with it may lead to feeling so overwhelmed that you can’t perform your normal daily functions. Some things that might trigger a nervous breakdown include:
What are some common signs of a breakdown?
Anxiety or Depression Symptoms:
Low self-esteem
Fearfulness
Irritability
Worrying
Feeling helpless
Getting angry easily
Withdrawing from family and friends
Losing interest in favourite activities
Difficulty breathing
Uncontrollable crying
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Trouble Concentrating:
Long-term stress can affect memory and lead to difficulty concentrating.
In extreme cases, excessive cortisol (a stress hormone) can even cause memory loss.
Insomnia:
Stress may cause insomnia, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Lack of sleep worsens stress and anxiety.
Physical Symptoms:
- Headaches, digestive problems, changes in appetite, or weight fluctuations may accompany a mental break.
How common are breakdowns?
The prevalence of nervous breakdowns or mental breakdowns can vary widely, as they are not precisely defined clinical terms. However, stress-related conditions, anxiety disorders, and depression affect a significant portion of the population.
If you’re experiencing distress, consider seeking professional help to better understand and manage your symptoms.
What to do during a nervous or mental breakdown?
If you think you might be having a nervous breakdown, contact a doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible.
A nervous breakdown could be a sign of a mental health condition. It’s important for you to see a doctor as soon as you notice signs of a breakdown.
They can help determine the cause, diagnose any health conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms, and refer you to a specialist for further care.
How counselling can help
Counselling offers a supportive and structured environment where individuals can address the underlying causes of their breakdown, develop coping strategies, and work towards recovery. Here are several ways in which counselling can be beneficial:
Providing emotional support
Counselling offers a safe space for individuals to express their feelings of overwhelm, fear, and sadness. A counsellor provides empathy and understanding, helping individuals feel heard and validated.
Identifying triggers and stressors
Through counselling, individuals can gain insight into the specific stressors or events that contributed to their breakdown. Understanding these triggers is crucial for developing effective coping strategies.
Developing coping mechanisms
Counsellors work with individuals to develop practical tools and techniques to manage stress and anxiety. This can include relaxation exercises, mindfulness practices, and problem-solving skills.
