🕷️ Crawler Inspector

​ [Skip to content](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/signs-of-a-nervous-breakdown#main) [Health](https://www.health.com/) - Please fill out this field. - [Newsletters](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/signs-of-a-nervous-breakdown) Please fill out this field. - [News](https://www.health.com/news) News - [Recalls and Food Safety](https://www.health.com/food-safety-7378186) - [View All](https://www.health.com/news) - [Conditions A - Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) Conditions A - Z - [Endometriosis](https://www.health.com/condition/endometriosis) - [Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.health.com/condition/type-2-diabetes) - [Headaches and Migraines](https://www.health.com/condition/headaches-and-migraines) - [Cold](https://www.health.com/condition/cold) - [Flu](https://www.health.com/condition/flu) - [View All](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) Nutrition - [Eat Well](https://www.health.com/eat-well-6951509) - [Nutrition Basics](https://www.health.com/nutrition-basics-6951511) - [Vitamins and Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutrition/vitamins-supplements) - [View All](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) Wellness - [Mental Health](https://www.health.com/mental-health-6951502) - [Fitness](https://www.health.com/fitness) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/beauty/skincare) - [Sexual Health](https://www.health.com/sexual-health-8422429) - [View All](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [What to Buy](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) What to Buy - [Nutrition & Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutritional-supplements-6951520) - [Oral & Dental Care](https://www.health.com/oral-and-dental-products-6951524) - [Sleep Products](https://www.health.com/sleep-products-and-reviews-6951528) - [Over the Counter](https://www.health.com/over-the-counter-products-8651366) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/skincare-products-6951522) - [View All](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) - [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) About Us - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Testing and Vetting Products](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) - [Read More](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) Stay informed with emails from us - Please fill out this field. - [Newsletter Sign Up](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/signs-of-a-nervous-breakdown) - [News](https://www.health.com/news) - [Recalls and Food Safety](https://www.health.com/food-safety-7378186) - [Conditions A - Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Endometriosis](https://www.health.com/condition/endometriosis) - [Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.health.com/condition/type-2-diabetes) - [Headaches and Migraines](https://www.health.com/condition/headaches-and-migraines) - [Cold](https://www.health.com/condition/cold) - [Flu](https://www.health.com/condition/flu) - [View All](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Eat Well](https://www.health.com/eat-well-6951509) - [Nutrition Basics](https://www.health.com/nutrition-basics-6951511) - [Vitamins and Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutrition/vitamins-supplements) - [View All](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [Mental Health](https://www.health.com/mental-health-6951502) - [Fitness](https://www.health.com/fitness) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/beauty/skincare) - [Sexual Health](https://www.health.com/sexual-health-8422429) - [View All](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [What to Buy](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) - [Nutrition & Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutritional-supplements-6951520) - [Oral & Dental Care](https://www.health.com/oral-and-dental-products-6951524) - [Sleep Products](https://www.health.com/sleep-products-and-reviews-6951528) - [Over the Counter](https://www.health.com/over-the-counter-products-8651366) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/skincare-products-6951522) - [View All](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Testing and Vetting Products](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) # 9 Indicators You Might Be Experiencing a Mental Breakdown By [Rosie McCall](https://www.health.com/author/rosie-mccall) [Rosie McCall](https://www.health.com/author/rosie-mccall) Rosie McCall is a news reporter with a focus on health and sciences. Rosie was previously an editorial assistant at Health Magazine, and then went on to report on health and science news at publications like IFLScience and Newsweek. [health's editorial guidelines](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) Updated on March 29, 2026 Medically reviewed by [Kira Graves, PhD](https://www.health.com/kira-graves-7497597) ![Kira Graves, PhD]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/KiraGravesPhDUpdated-9c55a8d4bb644b5aa074f5f30f6e98b2.jpg) Medically reviewed by [Kira Graves, PhD](https://www.health.com/kira-graves-7497597) Kira Graves is a psychologist and therapist who prioritizes compassionate guidance and evidence-based techniques with her clients. [learn more](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-Stocksy_txp66d3773f0Kh300_Medium_4250722-496e08e2a9b94d3099ff6700ec403703.jpg) :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-Stocksy_txp66d3773f0Kh300_Medium_4250722-496e08e2a9b94d3099ff6700ec403703.jpg) Alba Vitta / Stocksy - Signs of a mental breakdown may include brain fog, fatigue, and irritability. - Prolonged stress may stem from financial stress or relationship troubles. - Eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of sleep can help manage stress. A mental (nervous) breakdown is an overwhelming response to stress that can happen to anyone. Prolonged stress can lead to severe emotional and physical symptoms. ### Looking for Support? If you are in a mental health crisis, or know someone who is, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to [SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources](https://www.speakingofsuicide.com/resources/) for a list of additional resources. If this is an emergency, call 911. [911](tel:911) ## 1\. Anxiety and Depression Prolonged stress can increase your risk of mental health conditions like: - **Anxiety** can cause feelings of dread, fear, and nervousness, as well as physical symptoms like sweating, tension, and a rapid heart rate. - **Depression** causes persistent feelings of sadness. When depressed, you may feel anxious, guilty, hopeless, or irritable. You may also have trouble sleeping (or sleep too much), appetite changes, or aches and pains. "Anxiety and depression are common reactions \[to stress\]," [Erin Engle, PsyD](https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/profile/erin-k-engle-psyd), an assistant professor of medical psychology in psychiatry at the Columbia University Medical Center, told *Health*. "Where you get into problems is when that stressor is persistent, and the person's coping resources are overwhelmed," said Engle. ## 2\. Brain Fog Stress can cause [brain fog](https://www.health.com/condition/alzheimers/brain-fog-causes), leading to cognitive difficulties, such as: - Forgetfullness - Trouble focusing - Difficulty with problem-solving - Feeling disorientated - Indecisiveness - Memory loss ## 3\. Changes in Sleep A mental breakdown can affect your sleep habits, causing you to sleep too little or too much. You might develop insomnia, which is trouble falling or staying asleep. Changes in sleep patterns are linked with depression. [Stress raises cortisol](https://www.health.com/cortisol-7368124), the "stress hormone." High cortisol levels can change how well and how long you sleep. In contrast, under stress, "\[s\]ome people find that they go into sleep overdrive," said Engle. ## 4\. Fatigue Exhaustion disorder is emotional and physical fatigue from [long-term stress](https://www.health.com/chronic-stress-8363099). You might feel so tired that you lack the energy for your usual activities. ## 5\. Feeling Hopeless It’s normal to feel [anxious in high-stress situations](https://www.health.com/condition/stress/what-causes-stress) and to feel calmer once the stress passes. In contrast, excessive anxiety can make you feel hopeless, which may signify a mental health crisis. ## 6\. Irritability When stressed for long periods, your body continually produces cortisol, and high cortisol levels may increase feelings of anger and irritability. You may seem "on edge" to others. ## 7\. Appetite Changes Stress can make you lose your appetite. It may also cause headaches, stomachaches, constipation, or diarrhea, making it hard to eat. Some people overeat [processed foods](https://www.health.com/food/the-22-worst-foods-for-trans-fat), like those high in trans fats or sugar, during a nervous breakdown. Cortisol can trigger cravings for these foods, making you feel less motivated to choose healthy options. ## 8\. Trouble Breathing Panic attacks, or sudden feelings of intense fear, can happen under intense stress, such as during a mental breakdown. A [common sign of a panic attack](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/panic-attack-symptoms) is trouble breathing. If this happens, try breathing exercises for quick relief. If you regularly have severe trouble breathing, talk with a doctor. ## 9\. Uncontrollable Crying and Emotional Breakdown During a mental breakdown, you might feel weepy or have episodes of uncontrollable crying, said Engle. Stress, as well as sleep deprivation and fatigue, can make you feel like crying more than usual. Crying can be helpful. Bottling up stress may worsen feelings of overwhelm and anger. ## Why Does a Mental Breakdown Happen? Any type of prolonged stress can cause a nervous breakdown, such as: - Being emotionally and physically fatigued - Having a chronic (long-term) illness - Having money issues - Caring for a sick loved one - Going through a divorce, breakup, or losing a loved one Anyone can have a nervous breakdown when life circumstances become overwhelming. Having a good support system can make a significant difference in working through life stressors. In some cases, a nervous breakdown can indicate an underlying mental health problem. If you suspect this, talk with a mental health specialist. ## Ways You Can Relieve a Mental Breakdown Developing healthy coping mechanisms and prioritizing self-care can help lower stress. such as: - Eat balanced meals. - Exercise regularly. - Get good sleep. - Focus on positive emotions. - Limit negative stimuli (e.g., "doomscrolling," or reading bad news). - Practice gratitude. - Set limits by saying "no" if you have too much on your plate. - Spend time with loved ones. - Spend time in nature. - Engage in a hobby. For chronic stress, try [relaxation techniques](https://www.health.com/breathing-exercises-8646630) such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, which help lower your blood pressure and slow your heart rate. ## When Should You See a Doctor? Talk with a mental health specialist if your stress interferes with your daily life for longer than two weeks. "I always encourage someone to seek out either a therapist, a psychologist, or a social worker—a licensed mental health professional," said Engle. Seek medical attention right away if you or a loved one has thoughts of helplessness or self-harm, or is using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. ### Next Steps - Read more about different [ways to manage stress](https://www.health.com/stress-management-8551051) effectively. - Lean on trusted family members and friends for support. - Consider talk therapy to help you develop coping strategies. Read more: - [Health Conditions A-Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Mental Illness](https://www.health.com/condition/mental-health-conditions) - [Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! Other 20 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. MedlinePlus. [Stress and your health](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003211.htm). 2. MedlinePlus. [Anxiety](https://medlineplus.gov/anxiety.html). 3. MedlinePlus. [Depression](https://medlineplus.gov/depression.html). 4. Kverno K. [Brain fog: A bit of clarity regarding etiology, prognosis, and treatment](https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20211013-01). *J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv*. 2021;59(11):9-13. doi:10.3928/02793695-20211013-01 5. Dong L, Xie Y, Zou X. [Association between sleep duration and depression in US adults: A cross-sectional study](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2021.09.075). *J Affect Disord*. 2022;296:183-188. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2021.09.075 6. Merrill RM. [Mental health conditions according to stress and sleep disorders](https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137957). *Int J Environ Res Public Health*. 2022;19(13):7957. doi:10.3390/ijerph19137957 7. Gavelin HM, Neely AS, Dunås T, Eskilsson T, Järvholm LS, Boraxbekk CJ. [Mental fatigue in stress-related exhaustion disorder: Structural brain correlates, clinical characteristics and relations with cognitive functioning](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102337). *Neuroimage Clin*. 2020;27:102337. doi:10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102337 8. MedlinePlus. [Mental health](https://medlineplus.gov/mentalhealth.html). 9. Chu B, Marwaha K, Sanvictores T, Ayers D. [Physiology, stress reaction](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541120/). In: *StatPearls*. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. 10. Vidal-Ribas P, Brotman MA, Valdivieso I, Leibenluft E, Stringaris A. [The status of irritability in psychiatry: A conceptual and quantitative review](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaac.2016.04.014). *J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry*. 2016;55(7):556-570. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2016.04.014 11. Madison A, Kiecolt-Glaser JK. [Stress, depression, diet, and the gut microbiota: Human-bacteria interactions at the core of psychoneuroimmunology and nutrition](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2019.01.011). *Curr Opin Behav Sci*. 2019;28:105-110. doi:10.1016/j.cobeha.2019.01.011 12. Sinha R, Gu P, Hart R, Guarnaccia JB. [Food craving, cortisol and ghrelin responses in modeling highly palatable snack intake in the laboratory](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112563). *Physiol Behav*. 2019;208:112563. doi:10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112563 13. MedlinePlus. [Panic disorder](https://medlineplus.gov/panicdisorder.html). 14. Maleki A, Ravanbakhsh M, Saadat M, Bargard MS, Latifi SM. [Effect of breathing exercises on respiratory indices and anxiety level in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder: A randomized double-blind clinical trial](https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.34.247). *J Phys Ther Sci*. 2022;34(4):247-251. doi:10.1589/jpts.34.247 15. Vingerhoets AJJM, Bylsma LM. [The riddle of human emotional crying: A challenge for emotion researchers](https://doi.org/10.1177/1754073915586226). *Emot Rev*. 2016;8(3):207-217. doi:10.1177/1754073915586226 16. Phillips I. [Crying is an acceptable way to manage emotional stress](https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l1642). *BMJ*. 2019;365:l1642. doi:10.1136/bmj.l1642 17. Fiksdal A, Hanlin L, Kuras Y, et al. [Associations between symptoms of depression and anxiety and cortisol responses to and recovery from acute stress](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.11.035). *Psychoneuroendocrinology*. 2019;102:44-52. doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.11.035 18. MedlinePlus. [How to improve mental health](https://medlineplus.gov/howtoimprovementalhealth.html). 19. MedlinePlus. [Relaxation techniques for stress](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000874.htm). 20. MedlinePlus. [Stress](https://medlineplus.gov/stress.html). ## Related Articles [![eating-before-bed-ipad-pie-food-dessert]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/gettyimages-530020685_0-2000-de83ee54336f454389c905f86af88fd9.jpg) Why You May Be Anxiety Eating and How To Avoid It](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/anxiety-causes-emotional-eating) [![A man sits on the couch with his elbows on his knees, hands folded to his face with his eyes closed]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/AnxietyGettyImages-1294430340-758c278f7a5b4ef5b5d91625687ab8c6.jpg) Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/12-signs-you-may-have-an-anxiety-disorder) [![zap-away-blues-illustration]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/zap-away-blues-2000-9e45881664f041fc92eedac87172fba4.jpg) What Is Alpha-Stim Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation?](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/cranial-electrotherapy-stimulation) [![Health Overview Illustration -Generalized Anxiety Disorder]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-generalized-anxiety-disorder-overview-7494542-final-f5de704797354fd09b45e4790250842e.jpg) What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?](https://www.health.com/generalized-anxiety-disorder-overview-7494542) [![female getting acupuncture treatment on face]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1255920495-584957020a344118ab8b295cd8b7e3e1.jpg) Should You Try Acupuncture for Anxiety?](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/acupuncture-for-anxiety) [![Woman not feeling well lying on her couch]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1336669448-f598c97835794853945b951b8bea58ec.jpg) What's the Difference Between a Panic Attack and an Anxiety Attack?](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/panic-attack-vs-anxiety-attack) [![Man using tablet and drinking coffee at office coffee break]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-Stocksy_txpf894579fR8k300_Medium_4317549-de17dc509f924ec7b12d85dbcb98f41f.jpg) Everything You Need To Know About Anxiety and Caffeine](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/how-coffee-increases-anxiety) [![Close up of a black woman wearing a purple cardigan and jeans pouring supplement tablets from a bottle into her hand.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-2181915991-6a4fcf220ebc4cb989ce29832bb17eb0.jpg) 12 Supplements To Ease Anxiety Symptoms](https://www.health.com/supplements-for-anxiety-8788507) [![anxiety love relationship support health mental woman women happy happiness well wellbeing]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/support-partner-anxiety-gettyimages-980072272-2000-623dd30e088e447a9049b78ca09c4a21.jpg) Tips for Navigating Anxiety in Romantic Relationships](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/help-partner-anxiety) [![nervous female sitting in group of people]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1143894355-01ddf5f7f32747328ef3edd023033649.jpg) 12 Tips for Overcoming Social Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/how-to-get-rid-of-social-anxiety) [![Woman lost in thought]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-Stocksy_txpa8eda9a30hn300_Medium_5400636-d990c977444b4bbe9a37b0e7ee5275de.jpg) 8 Ways To Stop Repetitive Thinking](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/how-to-stop-rumination-repetitive-thoughts) [![Woman sitting in white bedding takes a sip from a glass of water]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1997568907-2f707e3ccb0b4d01ae986650055d1e2c.jpg) How To Manage Anxiety Related to Swallowing Difficulties](https://www.health.com/anxiety-and-problems-swallowing-11710965) [![A woman sits with her eyes closed, holding a cup of tea]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Natural-Anxiety-Remedies-GettyImages-1277416589-2000-5bb81fd769d94057b805f6dcbac88a6c.jpg) 13 Effective Natural Remedies for Anxiety Relief](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/natural-anxiety-remedies) [![panic-attack-birds stress fear pain]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-590539272-2000-b7332e95d4f245ae9af0c75d99b19c1e.jpg) 14 Signs You Could Be Having a Panic Attack](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/panic-attack-symptoms) [![Person at work looking distressed.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-495784624-abbeef5496ea4c188757dc1cf8617e79.jpg) Dry Mouth and Panic Attack: Causes and Home Remedies](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/how-to-stop-a-panic-attack) [![parent and child experiencing generational trauma]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/generationaltrauma-GettyImages-1445387381-a541781b67aa4f029c68b49071c2791d.jpg) Understanding How Generational Trauma Impacts Mental Health](https://www.health.com/condition/ptsd/generational-trauma) [Health](https://www.health.com/) [Newsletters](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/signs-of-a-nervous-breakdown) Follow Us - [News](https://www.health.com/news) - [Conditions A-Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Product Vetting](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) - [Contact](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145#toc-contact-us) *Health's* content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. *Health* is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family. Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up

A mental (nervous) breakdown is an overwhelming response to stress that can happen to anyone. Prolonged stress can lead to severe emotional and physical symptoms. Prolonged stress can increase your risk of mental health conditions like: - **Anxiety** can cause feelings of dread, fear, and nervousness, as well as physical symptoms like sweating, tension, and a rapid heart rate. - **Depression** causes persistent feelings of sadness. When depressed, you may feel anxious, guilty, hopeless, or irritable. You may also have trouble sleeping (or sleep too much), appetite changes, or aches and pains. "Anxiety and depression are common reactions \[to stress\]," [Erin Engle, PsyD](https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/profile/erin-k-engle-psyd), an assistant professor of medical psychology in psychiatry at the Columbia University Medical Center, told *Health*. "Where you get into problems is when that stressor is persistent, and the person's coping resources are overwhelmed," said Engle. Stress can cause [brain fog](https://www.health.com/condition/alzheimers/brain-fog-causes), leading to cognitive difficulties, such as: - Forgetfullness - Trouble focusing - Difficulty with problem-solving - Feeling disorientated - Indecisiveness - Memory loss A mental breakdown can affect your sleep habits, causing you to sleep too little or too much. You might develop insomnia, which is trouble falling or staying asleep. Changes in sleep patterns are linked with depression. [Stress raises cortisol](https://www.health.com/cortisol-7368124), the "stress hormone." High cortisol levels can change how well and how long you sleep. In contrast, under stress, "\[s\]ome people find that they go into sleep overdrive," said Engle. Exhaustion disorder is emotional and physical fatigue from [long-term stress](https://www.health.com/chronic-stress-8363099). You might feel so tired that you lack the energy for your usual activities. It’s normal to feel [anxious in high-stress situations](https://www.health.com/condition/stress/what-causes-stress) and to feel calmer once the stress passes. In contrast, excessive anxiety can make you feel hopeless, which may signify a mental health crisis. When stressed for long periods, your body continually produces cortisol, and high cortisol levels may increase feelings of anger and irritability. You may seem "on edge" to others. Stress can make you lose your appetite. It may also cause headaches, stomachaches, constipation, or diarrhea, making it hard to eat. Some people overeat [processed foods](https://www.health.com/food/the-22-worst-foods-for-trans-fat), like those high in trans fats or sugar, during a nervous breakdown. Cortisol can trigger cravings for these foods, making you feel less motivated to choose healthy options. Panic attacks, or sudden feelings of intense fear, can happen under intense stress, such as during a mental breakdown. A [common sign of a panic attack](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/panic-attack-symptoms) is trouble breathing. If this happens, try breathing exercises for quick relief. If you regularly have severe trouble breathing, talk with a doctor. During a mental breakdown, you might feel weepy or have episodes of uncontrollable crying, said Engle. Stress, as well as sleep deprivation and fatigue, can make you feel like crying more than usual. Crying can be helpful. Bottling up stress may worsen feelings of overwhelm and anger. Any type of prolonged stress can cause a nervous breakdown, such as: - Being emotionally and physically fatigued - Having a chronic (long-term) illness - Having money issues - Caring for a sick loved one - Going through a divorce, breakup, or losing a loved one Anyone can have a nervous breakdown when life circumstances become overwhelming. Having a good support system can make a significant difference in working through life stressors. In some cases, a nervous breakdown can indicate an underlying mental health problem. If you suspect this, talk with a mental health specialist. Developing healthy coping mechanisms and prioritizing self-care can help lower stress. such as: - Eat balanced meals. - Exercise regularly. - Get good sleep. - Focus on positive emotions. - Limit negative stimuli (e.g., "doomscrolling," or reading bad news). - Practice gratitude. - Set limits by saying "no" if you have too much on your plate. - Spend time with loved ones. - Spend time in nature. - Engage in a hobby. For chronic stress, try [relaxation techniques](https://www.health.com/breathing-exercises-8646630) such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, which help lower your blood pressure and slow your heart rate. Talk with a mental health specialist if your stress interferes with your daily life for longer than two weeks. "I always encourage someone to seek out either a therapist, a psychologist, or a social worker—a licensed mental health professional," said Engle. Seek medical attention right away if you or a loved one has thoughts of helplessness or self-harm, or is using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress.