When Someone Is Catatonic?

Catatonia affects a person's ability to move in a normal way. People with catatonia can experience a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is stupor, which means that the person can't move, speak, or respond to stimuli. However, some people with catatonia may exhibit excessive movement and agitated behavior.

What is an example of catatonic behavior?

Characteristics of Catatonic Behavior

For example, a person might pace in a repeated pattern and make loud exclamations for no reason at all (i.e., not in response to an environmental stimulus or event). ​ Parrot-like repetition or echoing of words, known as echolalia, is also a common catatonic behavior.

What triggers catatonia?

Episodes are typically triggered when patients are startled or experience emotional stress. In contrast with what is observed in patients with catatonia, patients with stiff person syndrome are not mute and will often indicate that they are in great pain as a result of the muscle spasms.