What is the most likely diagnosis for a patient with abrupt loss of motor function after experiencing significant psychological stress?

The most appropriate diagnosis for a patient who experiences an abrupt loss of motor function following significant psychological stress is Conversion Disorder. This condition, also known as Functional Neurological Disorder, typically presents with neurological symptoms that are inconsistent with medical or neurological conditions and often arise in the context of psychological stress. The key feature is that symptoms, such as motor dysfunction, occur after a substantial stressor and can lead to significant impairment in one’s daily functioning.

Patients with Conversion Disorder may exhibit symptoms such as weakness, paralysis, or abnormal movements that can be linked to psychological conflict or stress. Importantly, the motor function loss is not intentionally produced or feigned, which differentiates it from other conditions that may present with similar neurological signs.

In contrast, while depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder can have significant emotional and physical effects, they do not typically present with abrupt loss of motor function as a primary symptom in response to stress. Depression may involve psychomotor retardation but does not specifically manifest as an acute loss of motor control. Similarly, PTSD is characterized by flashbacks, avoidance, and hyperarousal, and while it can lead to emotional distress and potentially affect motor functioning indirectly, it is not defined by