Psychomotor agitation is a state of increased, unintentional physical and mental activity that often shows up in people experiencing severe anxiety, mood disorders, or certain medical or neurological conditions.
It isn’t simply “restlessness.” It usually looks like excessive, purposeless movements linked to internal tension.
Common Signs
Restless movements: pacing, fidgeting, tapping fingers, shifting in seat
Repetitive gestures: rubbing hands, pulling at clothes, hair twirling
Speech changes: talking rapidly, interrupting, pressured tone
Difficulty sitting still: constant need to move or walk around
Visible inner tension: irritability, frustration, inability to relax
Associated Conditions
Mood disorders: major depressive disorder (especially with agitation), bipolar disorder (mania/mixed states)
Anxiety disorders
Substance use/abuse or withdrawal (e.g., stimulants, alcohol withdrawal)
Neurological conditions: See a Neurologist
Side effects of medications: See a Psychiatrist
Clinical Relevance
In psychiatry, psychomotor agitation is a key observation in mental status exams: (see a psychiatrist)
It can indicate severity of depression, particularly if accompanied by suicidal thoughts, Crisis support: Please Get Immediate help if suicidal (911 in the US, or 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
In neurology/medicine, it can point to different medical conditions, see a Psychiatrist and or a Neurologist.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 