Emotional Breakdown

While commonly used, the term "emotional breakdown" is not an official term in clinical psychology. However, in mainstream jargon, there are two distinct definitions.

First, an emotional breakdown is used to describe a psychological disorder. It is a socially acceptable way to cover up a more serious diagnosis and avoid the stigma from a critical public.

In this case, an emotional breakdown can describe anxiety or panic attacks, a trauma disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder, or a psychotic condition such as schizophrenia that can lead to serious consequences if left untreated.

In many cases, a major psychological disorder is not diagnosed until a complete nervous breakdown occurs, as it is the event that finally brings a patient into a hospital for the first time.

Secondly, the term emotional breakdown can be used to describe a personal meltdown of an individual who just doesn't know how to cope with present circumstances.

This can include episodes of uncontrollable weeping, withdrawal from loved ones and an inability to connect with everyday life. While still quite devastating, this latter description is much more easily resolved and usually does not seriously endanger a person.

©EverydayHealth