Psychomotor agitation is a series of unintentional and purposeless motions that stem from mental tension and
anxiety of an individual. This includes pacing around a room, wringing one's hands, uncontrolled tongue movement, pulling off clothing and putting it back on and other similar actions. In more severe cases, the motions may become harmful to the individual, such as
ripping, tearing, or chewing at the skin around one's fingernails, lips, or other body parts to the point of bleeding. Psychomotor agitation is a symptom typically found in
major depressive disorder or
obsessive-compulsive disorder, and sometimes the manic phase in
bipolar disorder though it can also be a result of an excess intake of
stimulants. It can also be caused by severe
hyponatremia. The middle-aged and the elderly are more at risk to express this condition .