pressured speech
Abnormally rapid, excessive speech that is difficult to interrupt, often seen in manic episodes.
Full Definition
Pressured speech is a symptom characterized by speech that is rapid in rate, increased in amount, and difficult to interrupt. The patient feels an internal pressure to continue talking and may become irritated if interrupted. The content often exhibits flight of ideas or circumstantiality, and the volume may be louder than normal. This symptom is most commonly associated with manic or hypomanic episodes in bipolar disorder, but can also occur in other psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or certain personality disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Describe both the rate and the difficulty of interruption to distinguish from simply rapid speech.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited pressured speech, speaking rapidly without pause for nearly twenty minutes." — Mental status examination
- "Her pressured speech made it difficult to conduct a structured interview." — Clinical assessment