Nervous Breakdown - Is It Preventable?

While nervous breakdown sounds like all functions stop in one go, it is not the case usually. There are tell-tale signs listed above, which someone who is close to the person would be able to appreciate. If someone who was very conscious about their appearance suddenly seems to not bother about their looks, look deeper. There could be other patterns which are evident, all pointing to a pending nervous breakdown. If your close friend or family member is having significant mood or emotional changes, have a chat to find out more.

Since most nervous breakdowns are associated with high levels of stress, stress management can help in avoiding stress breakdowns. Whatever the source of stress, people who are prone to nervous breakdown (familial or own) should learn stress management techniques. This could include yoga, meditation, reduced smoking, counseling, etc. Stress management improves overall health, and brain health and emotional health are definitely benefitted too.

It is not like every other person is headed for a nervous breakdown. There is a familial component, a personality factor, and environmental (personal and professional) which decide if a person would be having a nervous breakdown. There are triggers on one hand, but the response is also there on the other. Some people are definitely more prone to a breakdown than some who are hard-wired. Be gentle in handling people who you know are emotionally fragile.

Contrary to popular belief, a nervous breakdown is not a recurrent problem. A person can completely change lifestyle (including habits, sleep pattern, exercise, etc.) and ensure there are no further breakdowns. This, however, requires significant conscious effect and support of family and friends. Once determined to overcome recurrent nervous breakdown, the person would require adequate support to work at it.