Recurrent Mass Hysteria in a Secondary School in Nepal: A Case Report

Mass hysteria is a rare phenomenon that can occur in any community. We report a case of recurrent mass hysteria in a co-education secondary school in Palpa, Nepal. The index case was a 16-year-old girl who exhibited abnormal behavior and was diagnosed with psychotic depression. After a few days, several other girls in her class exhibited similar symptoms, culminating in a mass conversion disorder in the school assembly. The situation caused widespread panic among students, teachers, and staff members, ultimately leading to the school's closure. Health workers from the regional tertiary healthcare institute intervened by providing health education to parents, guardians, and students, which was the primary interventional strategy employed. In this case report, we describe the case, discuss the significance and implications, and emphasize the importance of increasing awareness and early diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.