Shane,
Every thing you've described leads to the high-probability
(90%+) conclusions as follows:
These recent reactive episodes you've experienced were text-book examples of classic panic-attacks...not uncommon (but unpleasant) phenomena given a particular scenario in almost anyone, so relax...not any thing approaching a true "nervous breakdown."
TASK ONE:
If you again feel something similar "coming on", practice slow rhythmic breathing while sitting down with your eyes closed---and immediately channel your thoughts on whomever/whatever is most symbolic to you of PEACE and COMFORT...train yourself to do these few techniques...they work, and keep you in control, & stop the progressive symptoms.
TASK TWO:
Quickly get a copy of the book: "I HATE YOU...please don't leave me!!"
The behavior you described coming from the other person is thoroughly defined and the nature of its pathology described in that one focused book. You'll see the true nature of her "beast within". Not your fault, not your responsibility, and very very little can be done to "change" it by any one...no matter the therapeutic efforts or medicines.
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How did you wind up in your current predicament?
Take some comfort in the clinical reality that some of the sickest & most unstable outrageous people are drawn to some of the gentlest, kindest, peaceful, thoughtful, reliable, consistent, patient, faithful, most trusting people in the world. They know what they are missing inside on their own, so they require you to supply enough of these qualities for both. They are Masters at using every good thing about you to their advantage and to your self-destruction.
2 choices to pick from IMMEDIATELY: ---------------------------------
Stay with her, & eventually lose everything that you have of any value...including your own sanity and self-worth. You could pour a thousand lifetimes of Shanes down into her bottomless well of un-meetable needs, & it would never be "enough".
Or, use this experience as a life-changing, positive opportunity to learn all you can to prevent anything similar catching you blind-sided ever again.
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TASK THREE:
Stay in the company of people you respect who place your best interests #1, and who will help make sure you're taking good care of your primary responsibility...SHANE.
You'll weather this storm, and emerge to enjoy & cherish the most beautiful sunshine you've yet seen.
Get busy here on the 3 tasks asked of you above, and remember we're pulling for YOU, every step of the path ahead.
