How would you know if you had or are having " nervous break down"?

Breakdown "criteria": The closest criteria for having a nervous breakdown within the psychiatric community is adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood (acute), via the dsm-iv criteria. The newer dsm-v criteria are being released, and this may lead to that being changed. The most important element is that the emotional changes must occur within 3 months of onset of an identifiable stressor.

Loss of intrest: Your first signs are going to be loss of interest in things you enjoy doing and feelings of guilt. This can often lead into depression due to feeling worthless. Dry mouth and racey thoughts may clue you to as something is wrong. This is where friends can come into play. Talk things out/ vent. If thoughts of suicide occur see a dr immediately.