According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, agitation is an extreme form of arousal defined as "excessive motor activity associated with a feeling of inner tension." Activity is inappropriate, repetitive, and nonproductive, and includes behaviors such as pacing, inability to sit still, and communication impairment. At more advanced stages, sleeplessness, confusion, anxiety, verbal incontinence, and reduced cooperation may be present. Although agitation can progress to physical aggression and violence, they are not core features.
Grandiosity is a criterion for mania.
Learn more about agitation in bipolar disorder.
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Cite this: W. Clay Jackson, Heidi Moawad. Fast Five Quiz: Bipolar Disorder With Agitation - Medscape - Feb 23, 2023.
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