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Catatonia

Also called: Catatonia

A condition where a person stops moving, talking, or responding normally, or moves oddly. It can happen with mood disorders, psychosis, or medical illness and is treatable.

TreatmentLorazepam, ECT

Overview

People may stay in one position, not speak, or repeat words or movements.

It's a medical emergency because people may stop eating or drinking.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Not moving or talking
  • Not eating or drinking

Less common

  • Odd postures
  • Staring
  • Rigid muscles

When to get medical care

Call 911Call 911 now for: not moving or talking, not eating or drinking.
Get care todayMilder symptoms that could be early signs.
See a doctor soonQuestions about lowering your risk.

Causes

Mental or medical illness.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • People with bipolar disorder, depression, or schizophrenia: Highest risk

Possible complications

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Exam:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

  • Get emergency care

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to a psychiatrist (for medicine) and a psychologist or licensed therapist (for talk therapy).

Living with it

  • Keep a regular sleep, meal, and activity routine.
  • Tell one trusted person how you're doing, and plan who to call on hard days.
  • Limit alcohol and drugs. They often make symptoms worse.
  • In a crisis, call or text 988 any time.
  • Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • People with mood disorders: Can occur during severe episodes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Many mental health medicines are used safely in pregnancy. Stopping suddenly can cause a relapse.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Mood problems can start during or after pregnancy. Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

  • Listen without judging, and let them know you care.
  • Encourage treatment, but don't force it unless they're in danger.
  • If they talk about suicide, call or text 988 with them.
  • Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Usually responds well to treatment.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What follow-up care do I need?
  • How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Catatonia

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.