PFM,
what you are describing sounds like extreme stress not a breakdown. I am not a doctor but I had a breakdown last year- the worst experience of my life...time had no meaning, I couldn't eat or sleep, cried constanly, my hands shook so much I couldn't hold anything...tears flowed from my eyes without any control. I felt like I had no control over my body or emotions, It scared the crao out of me.
Have you tried doing some breathing exersises or some reiki for the relaxation, this will really calm you down when you are stressed.
Hope you will be ok