Jobs, studies, personal struggles, and other stressors place constant pressure on the nervous system. Ignoring the red flags it raises when overheated can lead to a nervous breakdown.
What Is a Nervous Breakdown?
A nervous breakdown is an acute, short-term response to stress — an intense phase of psychological distress. It occurs when the nervous system’s resources are depleted. This is a protective mechanism against prolonged stress, emotional turmoil, and similar factors.
Triggers for a breakdown can include family issues, financial problems, the loss of a loved one, and more. These stressors accumulate over weeks or longer, wreaking havoc on the body.
Freshmen moving to new cities for studies often experience immense pressure. They must adapt to multiple stressors simultaneously: a new living environment and new academic demands. The same rule works for those who have just graduated from college. They feel so overwhelmed and nervous that nothing, even playing Dragon Slots or eating something tasty, does not help.
Signs of a Nervous Breakdown
Symptoms vary depending on personality, temperament, and resilience. However, common signs include:
- Intense anxiety.
- Detachment.
- Loss of interest in everything.
- Nervousness.
- Irritability.
- Emotional burnout.
- A sense of helplessness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
- Fear of the future.
- Memory issues.
- Heart problems
- Headaches.
- Tearfulness.
In acute phases, symptoms can escalate based on the cause and individual personality. It may begin with constant fatigue, apathy, or irritability, progressing to sudden outbursts over minor issues. The person may lose control, experiencing overwhelming emotions like crying, yelling, or laughing while feeling trapped and powerless. Thoughts of self-harm or harm to others may emerge, and attempts to comfort them can worsen the situation, intensifying anxiety, fear, and panic.
Breakdowns are often accompanied by hysterics or angry fits, lasting from minutes to half an hour, leaving the person exhausted, guilty, and drained. Physical symptoms, such as digestive issues, cardiovascular problems, or shortness of breath, may also occur. The body cannot function properly when its “main computer” is overwhelmed.
When to Sound the Alarm
You can recognize something is wrong by noticing some of the above symptoms. Sometimes, they result from medical conditions, like constant fatigue and drowsiness, which may indicate anemia. If you’re not under stress but experience these symptoms, consult a doctor rather than self-medicating or following friends’ advice.
If your condition persists despite external interventions, nothing brings joy, and dark thoughts dominate, seek professional help. Sometimes, a nervous breakdown can only be addressed through specialized therapy. There’s no need to feel ashamed or afraid — treatment can help you rediscover life’s colors.
How to Help Yourself
Forget the advice to “calm down”—it’s unhelpful and often adds to your frustration. Calming down means either ignoring or solving the problem entirely, which isn’t always feasible in an instant. True relief comes gradually by following these tips:
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep deprivation is a major stressor. You might feel fine staying up all night and attending classes during the day, but fatigue will accumulate, draining your resources until your body shuts down.
Find a Hobby
Whether it’s drawing, singing, rollerblading, or embroidery, choose an activity that brings relief and joy.
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity boosts endorphins, making you happier. Boxing, for example, helps release pent-up emotions, while running can feel like escaping your problems. Plus, a fit body and weight loss can further lift your mood.
Allow Yourself to Cry
Crying is a natural stress reliever, particularly for women. Don’t hesitate to release your emotions — let yourself cry and talk it out.
Eat Well
Your diet significantly impacts your well-being. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables, and don’t forget the comfort of warm meals.
