Catatonic

Catatonic describes a state characterized by a marked decrease in responsiveness to the environment. This can manifest in a variety of ways, including immobility, mutism, stupor, negativism (resisting instructions), posturing (maintaining bizarre or rigid positions), and waxy flexibility (the ability to maintain a position placed by another person). Catatonia is often associated with severe mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder, but can also be induced by certain medical conditions or substance abuse. Diagnosing catatonia requires observation of specific symptoms, sometimes evaluated using scales, and typically requires medical intervention.

Catatonic meaning with examples

• The patient remained in a catatonic state for hours, unresponsive to any stimuli. The nurses tried to rouse them, gently speaking their name and touching their arm, but there was no reaction. Concerned, the medical team decided to run several tests to get a baseline of their state while the doctor figured out what was going on. Eventually, it was determined that they needed to seek professional help.
• Following the traumatic car accident, she fell into a catatonic stupor, unable to move or speak. Paramedics quickly determined she needed life saving assistance and rushed her to the hospital to assess her for further injury and to try to stabilize her condition. Her family waited anxiously, praying for her recovery and hoping she would emerge from this state.
• The intense emotional distress following the loss of his job plunged him into a catatonic episode. He would stare blankly at the wall for hours, refusing to eat or drink. After much consideration, he was admitted into care, where the doctors were able to provide further consultation to assist with his needs.
• The heavy dose of sedative medication left him in a catatonic state for several hours. The staff monitored his vital signs closely to ensure his safety. Several members of staff and doctors worked in tandem to make sure his health and wellbeing were cared for.
• Witnessing the violent crime triggered a catatonic reaction in several bystanders. They stood frozen, unable to react or offer assistance. The shock and fear of the events overtook them, putting them into a mental haze. The police helped them find safety and offered assistance, knowing they would be there to assist them as needed.