Crossword Genius

Don't remain wholly calm? (2,2,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

go to pieces

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'calm?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with human feelings as well as being verbs in their base form.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for go to pieces that I've seen before include "Break up entirely" , "Crack up" , "Have a breakdown" , "Fall apart" , "Become so nervous as to be unable to function" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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