Nervous breakdown

Nervous Breakdown

A nervous breakdown is a non-medical term that describes a period of intense mental distress. During this period, individuals are unable to function normally in their everyday lives. Despite its prevalence, the term "nervous breakdown" is not recognized as a distinct mental health condition by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Definition

A nervous breakdown is often used to describe a sudden and acute bout of mental illness that can manifest as severe depression, anxiety, stress, or impaired functioning. However, it is not a specific condition but rather a general term that covers a wide range of mental illnesses.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a nervous breakdown can vary greatly from person to person, but they often include feelings of depression, anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Other symptoms can include insomnia, panic attacks, and difficulty concentrating.

Causes

The causes of a nervous breakdown are often related to stress and anxiety. This can be due to a variety of factors, including work-related stress, personal relationships, financial problems, or significant life changes such as divorce or the death of a loved one.

Treatment

Treatment for a nervous breakdown often involves addressing the underlying cause of the stress or anxiety. This can include psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes such as improving diet and exercise habits.

See Also

• Mental Health
• Stress (biology)
• Anxiety Disorder
• Major Depressive Disorder