Nervous breakdown
Emma Pinn
Sometimes we hear it said that someone's had a nervous breakdown, but you'd be forgiven for wondering what this actually means.
Usually the term is used to describe a highly emotional reaction to a build up of stress. But the term is vague and has no medical validity; the emotional reaction it references could be associated with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, mania, drunkenness, or psychosis. The term is also a misnomer in that there's no such thing as a 'nervous breakdown' - nerves don't break down in response to emotional stress. Today, 'burnout' and 'emotional collapse' might be the equivalent terms in common parlance.
If you feel like you're on the verge of a 'nervous breakdown', taking stock of what's causing you stress and doing some problem-solving to better manage your stressors may be all you need. Alternatively, visit your GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist for support. Online cognitive behaviour treatment (e-therapy) is increasingly available. Visit www.mindhealthconnect.org.au for a list of online programs.