Meltdown
A meltdown is an intense response to overwhelm. It can look like crying, shouting, or shutting down and is not deliberate behaviour.
Definition
Meltdowns can happen when stress or sensory input exceeds someone’s capacity. They are a nervous system response, not a choice. Support focuses on safety, reducing input, and offering calm co‑regulation. After a meltdown, recovery time and gentle support are important.
Why it matters here
We provide compassionate guidance that avoids blame and prioritises safety.
In NeuroBreath you can use this term for…
Common misunderstandings
- Meltdowns are tantrums.
- Discipline will stop meltdowns.
Related terms
Citations & review
Educational only. External links are provided as copy‑only references.
Written by:NeuroBreath Editorial Team·Editorial team
Reviewed by:Evidence Review Desk·Evidence reviewer
Editorial roles: Author drafts content · Reviewer checks clarity and safety language · Evidence reviewer checks source quality · Accessibility reviewer checks readability. Meet the editorial team.
Last reviewed
17 Jan 2026
Next review due
16 Jul 2026
Updated
17 Jan 2026
Evidence & sources
0 sources · tiers C
Update history
- 17 Jan 2026contentInitial glossary definition published.
Educational information only — not medical advice. Read the disclaimer.