A catatonic episode is a medical emergency because of risks like dehydration, malnutrition, or self-harm.
See a Psychiatrist and or a Neurologist for more information.
Catatonia (or being catatonic) is a psychomotor syndrome — meaning it involves a disruption of movement and behavior that arises from a psychiatric, neurological, or medical condition. It’s not a disorder by itself but a state that can occur in various conditions such as schizophrenia, mood disorders (especially bipolar disorder and major depression), or medical/neurological illnesses.
Here’s a breakdown to help you understand it clearly:
What Catatonia Is
Catatonia is a state of psychomotor disturbance characterized by abnormal movements, behaviors, or postures. A person in a catatonic state may appear frozen, unresponsive, or oddly repetitive in their actions.
⚙️ Common Symptoms (You Only Need 3 for Diagnosis)
According to the DSM-5, catatonia is diagnosed when three or more of the following symptoms are present:
Stupor — No psychomotor activity; not actively relating to the environment.
Catalepsy — Passive holding of a posture against gravity (e.g., arm remains raised when lifted).
Waxy flexibility — The person’s limbs stay in whatever position someone else places them.
Mutism — Little or no verbal response.
Negativism — Resistance to instructions or attempts to be moved.
Posturing — Voluntary assumption of bizarre or inappropriate postures.
Mannerisms — Odd, exaggerated actions of normal behavior.
Stereotypy — Repetitive, non-goal-directed movements (e.g., rocking, hand flapping).
Agitation — Excessive movement not influenced by external stimuli.
Grimacing — Strange facial expressions.
Echolalia — Mimicking another’s speech.
Echopraxia — Mimicking another’s movements.
🩺 Causes and Associated Conditions
Catatonia can occur with:
Schizophrenia (especially catatonic type)
Bipolar disorder (especially manic or mixed episodes)
Major depressive disorder
Neurological or medical conditions (e.g., encephalitis, metabolic disorders)
Substance use or withdrawal
Treatment
Catatonia is a medical emergency if severe (especially if the person stops eating or drinking).
Common treatments include:
A catatonic episode is a medical emergency because of risks like dehydration, malnutrition, or self-harm.
See a Psychiatrist and or a Neurologist for more information.
Treating the underlying condition (psychiatric or medical cause).
Example
A person with bipolar disorder may suddenly stop speaking, stay in one position for hours, and resist movement. Despite appearing “frozen,” they may still be aware of their surroundings — this is a catatonic episode.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 