It is the second weekend now being in the restricted movement operations. In stages of adaption, one will go through the alarm stage (first), which provides a burst of energy, resistance stage (second) where the body attempts to resist the stressor, and exhaustion stage (third) due to depletion of energy. I believe I am at the resistance stage now.
I spent the last two weeks going through the first stage, reorganizing my daily routines, stocking the food for the restricted movement, and planning the activities to endure this pandemic. It was a boost of adrenaline rush to adapt to the new environment. However, little did I know the resistance stage will be so much harder to handle. I got curious to understand, so I did a little bit of research to realize the stages of mental challenge or breakdown.
What is a mental breakdown?
A mental breakdown is a term used to describe a period of intense psychological distress.
What are the symptoms of mental breakdown?
The signs of a nervous breakdown vary from person to person. Examples include:
- depressive symptoms, such as loss of hope and thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- anxiety with high blood pressure, tense muscles, upset stomach, and trembling or shaking
- insomnia
Cause of nervous breakdown?
Recent traumatic event – COVID 19
How to manage symptoms?
I believe it is crucial to prepare for the worst and best to research as much as I can now. If it happens, I would at least know how to manage the symptoms.
1) Breathe deeply and count backward from 10 when you’re feeling anxious or stressed.
2) Develop a sleep schedule and routine that will help you sleep well. This could mean taking a warm bath, switching off electronic devices, or reading a book before bed.
3) Develop a routine to call friends, family, and colleagues.
Lifestyle modifications can help you prevent a nervous breakdown. They can also help lessen the severity and frequency of them. I hope we can all endure this and support each other mentally.
Please stay at home and help flatten the curve!