Catatonic Stupor:

The catatonic stupor is a psychological condition characterized by extreme psychomotor disturbances and profound withdrawal from the external world. Individuals suffering from this condition often show a complete lack of responsiveness and a rigid body posture.

Symptoms:

Some common symptoms observed in catatonic stupor include:

  • Mutism: Inability or refusal to speak.
  • Immobility: Maintaining an unchanging posture for an extended period, often resisting efforts to be moved.
  • Staring: Fixed gaze without reacting to surroundings.
  • Negativism: Active resistance or opposition to requests or instructions.
  • Posturing: Adopting unusual, rigid body positions or assuming odd or inappropriate bodily movements.
  • Echolalia: Mimicking or repeating words or phrases spoken by others.
  • Echopraxia: Imitating or reproducing movements made by others.

Causes:

The exact cause of catatonic stupor is not well understood. It is often associated with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. It can also be a result of drug abuse, withdrawal from medications, or neurological disorders.

Treatment:

Treating catatonic stupor requires a comprehensive approach involving psychiatric evaluation, medical tests, and collaborative treatment plans. The primary goal is to address the underlying cause and alleviate symptoms. Treatment options may include medications, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and psychotherapy.