MEDICAL NEWS TODAY
There are a few things that may help reduce symptoms of emotional and physical stress. Additionally, most of the treatment options for a nervous breakdown also help prevent the condition.
Common treatment and prevention strategies for a nervous breakdown include:
- seeking counseling, usually cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT
- talking to a doctor about antidepressant, antianxiety, or antipsychotic medications
- trying to reduce or resolve sources of stress, such as conflicts at home or workplace demands
- doing exercises to support mental and physical relaxation, such as deep breathing and meditation
- doing exercises, such as yoga and tai chi that promote gentle stretching or movement coupled with controlled breathing
- getting at least 20 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, or 10 minutes of high-intensity exercise, daily
- trying to get outside for at least a few minutes daily or finding hobbies that encourage going outdoors
- talking with friends, family, partners, and roommates about troublesome feelings
- setting healthy hygiene, sleeping, and eating schedules, and sticking to them
- seeking out local or online support groups made for people with similar symptoms
- creating a distraction-free sleeping environment to encourage quality sleep
- avoiding the excessive use of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
- avoiding the use of illicit drugs
