Agitation
Agitation
Agitation (/ædʒɪˈteɪʃən/) is a feeling of restlessness or a state of excessive nervous excitement or anxiety. It is often characterized by physical behaviors such as pacing, hand-wringing, or other repetitive movements.
Etymology
The term "agitation" comes from the Latin word "agitatio", which means "to put in motion, drive, urge on". It was first used in the English language in the 15th century.
Related Terms
- Anxiety: A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome.
- Restlessness: An inability to rest, relax, or concentrate.
- Excitability: The quality of being easily excited or stimulated.
- Irritability: The state or quality of being easily annoyed or provoked to anger.
Symptoms
Agitation can manifest in various ways, including:
- Physical restlessness: This can include pacing, hand-wringing, or other repetitive movements.
- Verbal aggression: This can include shouting, swearing, or making threats.
- Physical aggression: This can include hitting, kicking, or throwing objects.
Causes
Agitation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Mental health disorders: Such as anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
- Neurological disorders: Such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.
- Substance use: Including alcohol, drugs, or withdrawal from these substances.
Treatment
Treatment for agitation often involves addressing the underlying cause. This can include:
- Psychotherapy: Such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy.
- Medication: Such as antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, or anti-anxiety drugs.
- Lifestyle changes: Such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Agitation
- Wikipedia's article - Agitation
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