around the bend
1
mentally confused and incapable of behaving in a reasonable way
The origin of the idiom "around the bend" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, possibly in American English. The phrase draws on the literal meaning of "bend" as a curve or turn in a road. This expression can be used to describe instances where individuals display signs of madness, extreme eccentricity, or unconventional thinking. It can be applied to situations where someone's behavior becomes increasingly bizarre or detached from reality.
- He is going around the bend with his conspiracy theories.
- The stress of the situation is causing her to go around the bend.
- After the loss of his job, he went around the bend and started isolating himself from everyone.
- They went around the bend during their road trip and ended up taking a detour through an abandoned town.
- If they don't find a solution soon, he will go around the bend and lose all sense of reason.