Agitation

Under stress, you may sometimes feel tense or walk aimlessly. You may experience this when agitated.

Agitation, sometimes known as restlessness, is a feeling of confusion, annoyance or irritation. You may get agitated for no known reason or due to a mental health disorder.

You may experience agitation because of:

• The need to perform at work or at school.
• Someone or a situation.
• Alcohol use, smoking tobacco or drug abuse. This can also happen when you are trying to stop.
• Some mental health problems like deep sadness and fear disorders.
• An imbalance in your hormones.

When you feel agitated,

• You may feel a lot of inner tension.
• Want to move, usually without any aim.
• Often, you may react sharply or with irritation.
• You may be very excited.

Agitation will usually resolve as soon as the event passes or your ability to handle it improves.

You should, however, pay a visit to your healthcare provider when you notice the following:

• Agitation lasts for a long time, and you do not know why.
• You have suicidal thoughts or thoughts of hurting others.

You can prevent or reduce the effect of agitation by understanding your triggers and managing your risk factors. In addition, you should create a calm environment, avoid your triggers, reduce or manage your stress and exercise often.

1. Self-care:
   • Eat healthy and nutritious foods. They keep you alert and able to cope.
   • Try to take breaks from activities that make you stressed. If you can, discuss this with your manager or direct report.
   • When you begin to feel inner tension, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing and some physical activity.
2. Medical Treatment
   • Though not commonly required when agitation resolves shortly after the stress is removed, some people may still require some treatment.
   • Your healthcare provider may recommend medicines that can calm you down.
   • If it is caused by a medical problem, then appropriate treatment will be recommended.

There is often no need to worry as this symptom will be resolved as soon as the stressful event passes. If your agitation lasts for a long time and begins to affect your daily activities, you should see your healthcare provider.
For stresses related to work and school, you should speak to the person you report to. This support is important for your mental health.