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.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms