Catatonia

Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome characterized by a range of behaviors including immobility, mutism, negativism (resistance to instructions), posturing (maintaining unusual or awkward positions), and sometimes, catatonic excitement (purposeless and excessive motor activity). These symptoms often indicate an underlying psychiatric condition, most commonly schizophrenia or mood disorders (such as bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder), but can also be caused by medical conditions or substance use. The diagnostic criteria involve the presence of at least three of twelve characteristic features related to motor, verbal, and behavioral abnormalities.

Catatonia meaning with examples

• During the crisis, Sarah exhibited catatonia, sitting motionless for hours with a vacant stare. Her family grew increasingly concerned as she became completely unresponsive to verbal cues, displaying profound mutism and refusing to eat or drink. They quickly sought medical help to diagnose and address the concerning symptoms, hoping to restore her mental wellbeing.
• The psychiatrist observed that the patient’s catatonia manifested in rigid posturing and waxy flexibility, allowing them to position the patient's limbs in unusual positions which they maintained for long periods. Despite attempts to elicit a response, the patient remained mute and did not acknowledge any attempts to interact or engage in dialogue, making a diagnosis difficult.
• John's episode of catatonia was preceded by severe depression. He presented with stupor and a tendency to remain completely still, unmoving for long periods in his bed. He showed negativism, actively resisting any attempts to move or change his position or engage in any interaction or communication. He needed immediate care to prevent further physical decline.
• In the emergency room, the patient exhibited a mixed state of catatonia. Alternating between periods of immobility, rigidity, and repetitive, purposeless movements and screaming. The clinical staff immediately initiated protocols to stabilize the patient, address the unpredictable behavior, and start identifying the root cause of the symptoms and implement treatment
• The medication prescribed to treat the patient's catatonia led to a rapid reversal of symptoms. The patient began to speak again and move, the catatonia symptoms had subsided, and engagement increased, improving their physical and mental state. The medical team monitored the patient closely for side effects and adjusted the dosage to ensure continued progress.