What is the definition of pressured speech?

Pressured speech is characterized by rapid, often frantic, speech that typically occurs during manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions. This type of speech is marked by an urgency and a feeling that the person must keep talking, often leading to a disorganized or erratic flow of ideas. The individual may speak so quickly that it becomes difficult for others to follow or interject, and they might jump from topic to topic without coherence.

While other options describe speech patterns, they do not reflect the unique characteristics of pressured speech. A slow and deliberate manner of speaking suggests a calm and measured approach, contrasting sharply with the rapid, almost overwhelming quality of pressured speech. An increase in volume while speaking does not specifically indicate pressured speech, as someone may raise their volume for various reasons unrelated to the intensity or speed of their speech. Lastly, an inability to articulate thoughts clearly refers more to disorganized thinking rather than the specific urgency and rapid pace that defines pressured speech. Thus, the defining features of pressured speech are best captured by its connection to manic episodes, supporting the choice made.