Catatonia is a symptom characterized by a complete lack of motor control combined with mental stupor. First thought to be a separate condition, it's now better understood as a symptom of many mental illnesses and organic diseases including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, clinical depression and drug use. Physical illnesses that can present with catatonia include encephalitis, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic diseases.
Generally, benzodiazepine is effective at treating the symptom. In severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy may be used.
Catatonia can present in several ways, such as a complete lack of movement, holding a rigid and unnatural posture, or engaging in repetitive but useless movements. Patients are generally unresponsive to any external stimuli.