Psychomotor agitation

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Psychomotor agitation is a series of unintentional and purposeless motions that stem from mental tension of an individual. This includes pacing around a room, wringing one’s hands, pulling off clothing and putting it back on and other similar actions. In more severe cases, the motions may become harmful to the individual, such as ripping, tearing or chewing at the skin around one’s fingernails to the point of bleeding. Psychomotor agitation is a symptom typically found in major depression disorder or OCD, and sometimes the manic phase in bipolar disorder, although it can also be a result of an excess intake of stimulants. The middle aged and the elderly are more at risk to express this condition.

See also: anxiety.

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