It is important to identify and seek professional help if needed to gain understanding of what is causing/contributing to the experience of feeling the mental distress. Some examples of what could cause a person to feel this way are experiencing a recent change in life, a chronic medical condition, poor sleep, a traumatic event, a loss in the family, stress at work, and/or financial issues. It is also important to note that the experience of mental distress “mental breakdown,” as some would refer to this non-clinical term could be a sign of a mental health condition.

Some recommendations that would be helpful for people who find themselves experiencing intense mental distress are:

1) Seeking the help of a mental health professional (i.e. psychologist, psychiatrist, LCSW, LMFT) is they feel that the symptoms are too overwhelming, unmanageable, or impacting different areas of their lives (i.e. relationships, work, school).

2) Regular sleep every night. It is recommended to sleep at least 8 hours of sleep, no less than 6. Work on developing a sleep schedule that has a targeted bed time and a wake up time. Prepare for your bedtime at least 30 minutes before going to sleep (brush your teeth, change into your pajamas, turn off the television and all electronic devices).

3) Exercising at least three times a week for a duration of at least 30 minutes each time.

4) It is recommended to avoid substances that can increase stress on your body (i.e. caffeine, alcohol, drugs).

5) Incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindful meditation, deep breathing, and guided imagery. There are many videos and resources on line that are guided exercises and will help orient you to the practice of these methods.

6) There are also alternative methods of healing that you can engage in such as yoga, reiki, somatic therapy, acupuncture, massage.

7) Talk to family, friends, people that you trust. Let them know how you are feeling.

8) If you are religious and/or spiritual, engage in your religious or spiritual community events. Talk to leaders in your religious or spiritual community.

9) In moments of intense stress it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many people that want to help if you are feeling intensely stressed and overwhelmed. Allow yourself to give yourself the gift of talking to someone who you trust and letting someone help you.

Here are some additional resources that many who have experienced intense mental distress “mental breakdown,” have called and received support from.

Mental Health Warm Lines for Mental Health Support and Guidance 24/7

Contact Information:

LA Warmline Tel: 855-952-9276 Sun to Sat, 10PM to 6AM
Suicide Crisis Line Tel: 877-727-4747 24HRS
ACCESS Center Tel: 800-854-7771 24 HRS
Hotline of Southern California Tel: 562-596-5548 Sun to Sat, 9AM to 10PM
Community Helpline Tel: 877-541-2525 Sun to Sat, 9AM to 10PM
Project Return Tel: 888-448-9777 Mon to Fri, 5PM to 10PM
THE NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) HELPLINE
800-950-NAMI

info@nami.org

M-F, 10 AM – 6 PM ET

FIND HELP IN A CRISIS OR TEXT “NAMI” TO 741741