A young woman from China experienced a severe psychological breakdown after being scolded by her supervisor at work. According to a report from the South China Morning Post, Li, a resident of Henan province, became catatonic, ceasing to eat, drink, or move due to the trauma. The report indicated that her team leader reprimanded her for work-related issues, leading to significant emotional distress and a complete shutdown of her physical and emotional functions. Over time, her condition worsened, severely impacting her physical abilities. Her family noted that when they removed the pillow from under her head, it would hang limply, unable to support itself. She also lost control over basic bodily functions and required constant help from her family to use the toilet.

Li was diagnosed with catatonic stupor. When she arrived at the hospital, she resembled a "wooden figure," unable to move or respond. Dr. Jia Dehuan, her physician at Zhengzhou Eighth People's Hospital, explained that she was experiencing a catatonic stupor, a severe symptom of depression characterized by immobility, unresponsiveness, loss of motor control, and withdrawal from reality. Dr. Jia noted that this extreme manifestation of depression is often triggered by intense emotional trauma.

Li, described as an introvert who struggled to connect with others, faced small triggers that led to her condition, which is now being treated.

What is Catatonic Stupor?
Catatonic stupor, or catatonia, is a psychomotor disorder affecting the link between mental function and movement. Those affected may experience symptoms that include an inability to move, speak, or respond. Catatonia can last from a few hours to months or even years, and it can recur years after the initial episode.

Causes of Catatonic Stupor
Experts suggest several potential causes of catatonia, including:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Psychotic disorders
• Bipolar disorders
• Depressive disorders
• Cerebral folate deficiency
• Autoimmune diseases

Signs and Symptoms of Catatonia
Symptoms that may indicate catatonia include:

• Stupor: Inability to move, speak, or respond
• Posturing: Remaining in the same position
• Malnutrition and dehydration
• Echolalia: Repeating phrases without comprehension
• Muscle rigidity
• Negativity
• Mimicking others' movements
• Mutism
• Restlessness
• Vital signs such as blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate may fluctuate

Risk Factors for Catatonia
Women are at a higher risk of developing catatonia, especially as they age. While historically linked to schizophrenia, catatonia is now treated as a distinct disorder. Statistics indicate that around 10% of severely ill psychiatric inpatients experience catatonia, with 20% having schizophrenia and 45% diagnosed with mood disorders. Women with postpartum depression may also experience this condition, alongside other risk factors like recurrent cocaine use, low blood salt levels, and certain medications like ciprofloxacin.