Is It a Nervous Breakdown? 7 Symptoms to Know

Nervous breakdowns may have been associated with celebrities in the past, but they’re certainly not just limited to stars and celebrities anymore. In fact, if you think you are suffering from one, you probably are — and it’s important to know what to do about it so that you can live your life to the fullest once again. Here are 7 key symptoms of nervous breakdowns that every psychotherapist knows to watch out for.

1) FEELING LIKE YOU'RE LOSING CONTROL

During an actual nervous breakdown, you may feel as if you have absolutely no control over your emotions or actions. You might notice that you've started taking certain risks that are out of character for you, or doing things (or saying things) without thinking about how it'll affect others. When we’re feeling overwhelmed and helpless, we tend to act impulsively.

2) PRESSURE IN YOUR CHEST OR HEAD

The physical feelings you experience during anxiety and stress are largely due to your body’s sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and, specifically, its fight-or-flight response. This is why people who suffer from panic attacks or acute anxiety often report feeling symptoms like chest pain or heart palpitations, as well as headaches and muscle pains. Like many other symptoms of both panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), lightheadedness can also be caused by decreased blood flow in your central nervous system.

3) AN OVERWHELMING SENSE OF DREAD

A nervous breakdown may not be caused by an isolated incident or stressor—it can stem from long-term, chronic stress. In some cases, it could even follow a traumatic experience like domestic violence. When you’re in emotional pain and physical stress, your body will eventually shut down; your brain and body will rest while they figure out how to cope with what you’re experiencing.

4) TROUBLE SLEEPING

Sleeping less than six hours every night could make you as vulnerable to mental breakdowns as someone who isn’t getting enough sunlight. If your insomnia is out of control, contact your primary care physician. In some cases, it may be helpful to consult with a sleep specialist or psychologist. In addition to keeping you from crashing and burning at work in terms of stress and concentration levels, chronic insomnia can do serious damage over time.

5) THINKING ABOUT DEATH

One of the most common symptoms of depression is feeling as though you’re no longer able to enjoy life or find pleasure in activities that used to bring you joy. And if you think about death, that can be an indication of how depressed you are. People who commit suicide will sometimes say they have thought about it for many years, and other times people may start thinking about death shortly before they attempt it, Corcoran says.

6) HAVING PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS LIKE CHEST PAIN AND TROUBLE BREATHING

If you have chest pain and feel short of breath, it’s time to call for help. These are both signs of a heart attack. Call the helpline or get someone else to do so immediately and be prepared to give as much information as possible, including your name, age, address, and symptoms (chest pain or difficulty breathing). You should also let them know if you’re taking any medications. The person on the other end of that line will help save your life.

7) SUICIDAL THOUGHTS

Suicidal thoughts are not uncommon in those who experience depression and anxiety. If you have attempted suicide in your past, do not be alarmed—it does not mean that you will attempt suicide again. In fact, it may mean that you’re more aware of what could push you over the edge. Keep an eye on your suicidal thoughts, though; if they don’t subside after two weeks or increase in intensity, please seek help from a mental health professional immediately.

CONCLUSION

No one should have to suffer through a nervous breakdown. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to seek help. Whether your doctor recommends therapy, medication, or both—or something else entirely—there are plenty of ways to get relief from anxiety and depression. Focus on regaining your strength and getting back on track with whatever treatment plan you choose. Remember: You are not alone.

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