go into a tailspin

go into a tailspin or go into a nose dive  {v. phr.},  {informal}
1. To fall or go down badly; collapse; give up trying.
The team went into a tailspin after their captain was hurt, and they were badly beaten.
2.  {informal}
To become very anxious, confused, or mentally sick; give up hope.
The man went into a tailspin after his wife died and he never got over it.
Categories: hurt {informal} {v. phr.}