Do you know these 10 signs show that you are on the verge of a mental breakdown? Check them out!.

In times of economic hardship and soaring living costs, individuals are being pushed to their limits, prompting concerns from experts about a surge in mental health issues like depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and even suicide.

Acknowledging the signs of an impending mental breakdown is crucial. Here’s how to recognize when stress levels have peaked and when to seek assistance:

1. Intensified Stress: Life may feel overwhelmingly stressful due to circumstances like financial strain, illness, or loss. While these events don’t guarantee a breakdown, they elevate the risk. Seek professional help if stress feels unmanageable.

2. Inability to Cope: Basic tasks become burdensome, signaling a need for a break to prevent a breakdown. Even mundane activities seem daunting, and social interactions become overwhelming.

3. Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness, and memory lapses may occur, indicating a nervous breakdown.

4. Breathing Difficulties: Anxiety symptoms such as chest tightness and rapid breathing may manifest. Breathing exercises can offer immediate relief, but persistent breathing issues require deeper attention.

5. Appetite Changes: Stress-induced changes in appetite, either overeating or undereating, can occur. Healthy meal preparation may become less appealing during breakdown episodes.

6. Social Withdrawal: Individuals may isolate themselves from loved ones and fantasize about escaping reality. Avoidance and isolation serve as coping mechanisms.

7. Sleep Disturbances: Altered sleep patterns, either excessive sleep or insomnia, may arise. Sleep becomes either an escape or a source of rumination.

8. Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and bodily weakness may indicate maximum stress levels. Activities lose their appeal, and joy diminishes.

9. Panic Attacks: Prolonged anxiety can lead to sudden, overwhelming fear. Mood swings and incessant worrying may occur, exacerbating mental distress.

10. Feelings of Failure: Despite rational understanding, individuals may feel like failures and struggle to recall past successes. Thoughts of suicide or helplessness may emerge.

Prioritize self-care by engaging in healthy coping mechanisms and seeking support from trusted individuals. Professional help is essential in navigating through breakdowns.

Article by Suzy Nyongesa.