Defining Agitation: What Does It Actually Mean?

In a clinical context, agitation is defined as an internal state of severe restlessness and tension that manifests externally as increased motor, verbal, or behavioral activity. It’s more than just a feeling; it’s a set of observable behaviors that can include everything from pacing aimlessly to shouting or resisting help.

Crucially, agitation is not a standalone disease. It is a clinical symptom that almost always points to an underlying medical or psychiatric condition. While everyday language might use a similar term—for instance, the Turkish phrase “ajitasyon yapmak” means to exaggerate for emotional effect—the clinical meaning is entirely different. Clinical agitation is an involuntary and uncontrollable state, a sign that a person’s ability to regulate their thoughts, emotions, and actions is severely impaired.

Now that we understand what agitation is, let’s explore how it actually looks and feels.