5 Warning Signs You're At Your Breaking Point Before You Have A Meltdown

Are you feeling a bit stretched thin? Perhaps you're being pushed to the limits at work. Is your relationship stressing you out? Are there problems at home? Is it all of the above?

Maybe you feel like you want to scream at the top of your lungs, run away or just drop everything and curl up into a ball on the floor. If this is the case, you're headed toward an emotional meltdown. But, fear not. You can change all of this.

Emotional meltdowns don't happen overnight. Most likely, there has been a buildup of overwhelming frustration.

Here are some warning signs you're headed toward an emotional meltdown:

1. You're not your usual self.

You may be more easily irritated and snap at others over minor things throughout the day. Sometimes, you may just withdraw altogether and harbor an attitude of “I can't be bothered.”

2. Your appearance is lackluster.

A few months ago, you used to take pride in your appearance. But nowadays, you simply don't care about your appearance like you used to.

3. Day-to-day life seems like a burden.

Daily routines, tasks and obligations all seem like burdens. The point is, everything is a burden.

4. You spend more time engaging in destructive habits.

You may have noticed you're spending more time out with friends, but you're only drinking and partying. On the flip side, you have shut everyone out, and you would rather be home alone or sleeping.

5. Your immune system is compromised.

You can't shake the common cold, or you're more prone to getting sick frequently.

If you've noticed these signs, don't worry. You're in good hands. You can get your life back on track.

Right now, think of it like this: You're heading into a construction zone in thick traffic. What a nightmare, right? Exactly. But, you can always correct your course and find the side roads that will get you back to home base.

Here are five things that can help you avoid an emotional breakdown:

1. Take a time-out.

Time-outs aren't just for children. Sometimes, adults need them, too. In this case, you probably need one right now. Go for a walk, get some fresh air or even meditate. Do something that requires physical or mental activity, and avoid plopping down in front of the television.

2. Exercise.

Exercising is a quick way to elevate your mood, boost your confidence and gain self-worth. Aim to get your heart rate up once a day.

3. Hang out with your friends.

Enlist your friends' help. Let them be there for you during this difficult time. See if your friends can offer a fresh perspective.

4. Journal.

Yes, I'm sure you've heard this one before. But, there's a reason for this: It works.

Journaling gives you the opportunity to let out your frustrations without the fear of anyone judging you. You're free to write whatever you want, whenever you want. You can always burn what you write afterward.

5. Get to the root of your problems.

Take some time to really figure out what's overwhelming and frustrating you so much that you're at the cusp of a potential emotional meltdown. Dig deep and analyze what's really going on with you.

Ask yourself questions such as, "What is really bothering me?" and "Why is this bothering me?" Be unapologetically you, and answer these questions truthfully. Say what you want to say.

Emotional meltdowns can happen to anyone at any time. You can prepare yourself by recognizing the symptoms and, in turn, proactively changing your circumstances.

Journey down the path less traveled. Slow down, and take a time-out if you feel like you're headed down the meltdown lane.