By Pauline Nenerai

A mental breakdown, also known as a nervous breakdown, is a period of intense emotional and mental distress that can make it difficult to function.

It is not a medical condition, but rather a term used to describe a mental health crisis. Mental breakdown can be caused by stressful life events such as divorce, trauma, or job loss. In addition to that, underlying health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or post -traumatic stress disorder can cause mental breakdown.

A lot of people are lonely and they lack social support, thus this can lead to mental breakdown. A family history of mental health conditions can cause mental breakdown on individuals. Severe or chronic medical conditions or injuries may cause mental breakdown. There are emotional, physical and mental symptoms of mental breakdown.

To begin with, emotional breakdown involves, hopelessness, guilt or feelings of worthlessness. There is also uncontrollable crying, persistent sadness. One can also exhibit extreme moodiness most of the time. They can also have suicidal thoughts or self-harm. Physical symptoms involve poor eating habits, insomnia or hypersomnia.

Dizziness, sweating, or muscle tension can also be symptoms of mental breakdown. Irregular heart beat or difficulty breathing is also a sign. Mostly an individual can have cramps or an upset stomach. Mental symptoms include the inability to focus or sleep.

One can feel overwhelmed, incapacitated or stuck. They just feel helpless and unable to think because of mental breakdown. There is also paranoia and delusions. Hallucinating is also a common symptom of mental breakdown.

People suffering from mental breakdown need help. People should listen to them without judging and concentrate on their needs that moment. Ask them what would help them. They also need reassurance. Avoid confrontation and ask them if there is someone, they would like you to contact.

Treatment of mental breakdown depends on its cause, it may include psychotherapy, medication and community support.