What Is Nervous Breakdown, and What Should You Do?

Sarah Bence
·5 min read
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<p>dragana991 / Getty Images</p>

dragana991 / Getty Images

Medically reviewed by Michael MacIntyre, MD

A "nervous breakdown" is a period of severe, intense emotional symptoms like panic, anxiety, and distress. Although nervous breakdown is not an official diagnosis, the term is still commonly used. The term "nervous breakdown" describes a situation in which a person has mental health symptoms that overwhelm them to the point they cannot perform their routine daily tasks, such as going to work or school or caring for themselves or others.

In this article, learn more about what a nervous breakdown is and how to seek help or support someone else in this crisis situation.

<p>dragana991 / Getty Images</p>

dragana991 / Getty Images





"Nervous Breakdown" Is an Old Term

The term "nervous breakdown" originated in the 1700s, when scientists believed our nervous system caused mental health symptoms. This was a way to keep people out of asylums and to maintain hope for a physical cure.

They believed that what is known today as a mental health crisis resulted from a malfunctioning nervous system, hence the name "nervous breakdown." People still use the term "nervous breakdown," but it is not an accurate medical term.




Nervous Breakdown Definition: What Do People Mean?

You might hear the term "nervous breakdown" replaced with other terms like "mental health crisis" or "mental breakdown" or as a "flare" of an existing mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and more.





Nervous Breakdown vs. Burnout

Similar to a nervous breakdown, burnout is not a medical condition. Burnout is an "occupational phenomenon," according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Symptoms of burnout include:

  • Exhaustion

  • Fatigue

  • Cynicism about your job or occupation

  • Reduced professional efficacy

According to WHO, the term "burnout" should be used exclusively for occupation-related stress and not to how your mental state affects other areas of your life.




Symptoms That Suggest a Nervous Breakdown

"Nervous breakdown" and "mental breakdown" are not clinical terms, making it difficult to identify exactly what symptoms might indicate that you (or someone you know) are experiencing one. A nervous breakdown is a catch-all term to describe a period of severe mental distress.

Symptoms that you might associate with a nervous breakdown include:

Why Might Someone Have a Nervous Breakdown?

A person could have a nervous breakdown due to a heightening of an existing mental illness or from overwhelming stress.

About 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences a mental illness yearly. Additionally, only 47.2% of adults with mental illness in the United States receive treatment. Untreated or inadequately treated mental illness may lead to a "flare" or crisis of symptoms, which may be referred to as a "nervous breakdown."

A person without any previously diagnosed mental illness can also experience symptoms associated with a nervous breakdown, such as mental stress from losing a job or home, grief from losing a loved one, divorce, and stress from life changes such as childbirth or menopause.

Certain viruses that affects the brain, including COVID-19, could cause symptoms like a nervous breakdown.





The COVID-19 Mental Health Crisis

There's growing evidence that COVID-19 can lead to brain inflammation and blood vessel damage leading to short- and long-term neurological (brain-related) symptoms. People with COVID-19 are at greater risk of having psychiatric symptoms, encephalitis, severe anxiety and depression, and psychosis in rare cases.




What to Do During a Nervous Breakdown

If you or someone you care for are experiencing symptoms of a nervous breakdown, first ensure their safety. Contact a healthcare provider, the National Mental Health Hotline, or emergency services to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

If your symptoms put you or other people in imminent danger, you may be admitted to the hospital for observation and individualized treatment, which may include:

  • Psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy)

  • Prescription medication

  • Rehabilitation facilities





Seek Help

If you believe that you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a nervous breakdown, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.




Nervous Breakdown Support: Whom to Turn To

There are various mental health resources available. Some people or organizations to seek support from include:

Related: National Helpline Database

Starting Treatment, How Long Could a Nervous Breakdown Last?

Since it is an antiquated term and not an official diagnosis, no research exists to quantify how long a nervous breakdown lasts. It is essential to know the cause of the symptoms, such as an untreated mental health condition, life change, or stress. Barriers to accurate diagnosis and treatment may extend the length of nervous breakdown symptoms.

Related: Coping Mechanisms: Everything You Need to Know

How to Help Someone Else Going Through a Nervous Breakdown

If someone you care about is going through a nervous breakdown, it's natural for you to want to help.

Here are some strategies to keep in mind:

  • Be alert to warning signs: Know the warning signs of a mental health crisis, including isolation, lack of self-care, eating habit changes, paranoia, and more.

  • Foster a safe and accepting space for them: Let your loved one know that you accept them for who they are, and tell them you care about them and are there when and if they feel ready to discuss any mental health concerns.

  • Encourage them to talk to a professional: Provide information—like phone numbers, names, or recommendations—for qualified mental health professionals such as a psychiatrist, therapists, or counselors.

  • Know the national helplines: Be aware of the various national mental health hotlines in case of emergency.

Summary

"Nervous breakdown" is an outdated term, not a diagnosable condition. The term refers to a severe mental health crisis involving panic, anxiety, mental distress, isolation, and other symptoms. A nervous breakdown may occur due to any number of mental illnesses or stressful life events, and it is vital to seek help so you can stay safe and receive a correct diagnosis and treatment.