Chronic Restlessness
A persistent state of inner agitation, inability to settle, or physical and psychological unease lasting weeks or months. Distinct from acute anxiety, it reflects a sustained dysregulation of the nervous system.
Quick answer
Chronic restlessness (ICD-10: R45.1; ICD-11: MB24.4) is a sustained feature of GAD, ADHD, and PTSD, and an important medication side effect (akathisia). CBT, ACT, and exercise have evidence. Akathisia requires medication review. Mania/hypomania must be excluded when restlessness is accompanied by decreased sleep.
Recognition
Do any of these feel familiar?
Constant sense of inner tension that does not fully subside
Inability to relax or feel at ease even in safe environments
Fidgeting, pacing, or need for constant movement
Difficulty concentrating due to persistent inner agitation
Fatigue from sustained hyperarousal
What is Chronic Restlessness?
A persistent state of inner agitation, inability to settle, or physical and psychological unease lasting weeks or months. Distinct from acute anxiety, it reflects a sustained dysregulation of the nervous system.
Approaches Commonly Explored
Commonly explored for conditions related to Chronic Restlessness, grouped by mechanism — select your subtype above to highlight the most relevant path.
How to use these approaches
Most people begin with Stabilise approaches, then progress toward Resolve and Sustain.
Cognitive patterns, emotional processing, and stress response.
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Self-care
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