Relative to Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.
By establishing a dedicated awareness week, AR19 emphasizes the need for regular screening and recognition of TD symptoms among patients on DRBAs. The resolution highlights that TD can develop after prolonged medication use, affecting an estimated 60,000 Californians. The Assembly encourages healthcare providers to be vigilant in monitoring and reporting symptoms, which not only impairs the quality of life for those afflicted but may also lead to social isolation due to the nature of the disorder. This resolution positions California as a proactive state in addressing the needs of individuals with TD, advocating for better treatment and care.
House Resolution No. 19 (AR19), introduced by Assembly Member Mullin on February 4, 2021, seeks to raise awareness about Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), a disorder recognized for causing severe, involuntary muscle movements associated with the long-term use of dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs) used primarily for treating severe mental illnesses and gastrointestinal conditions. The resolution specifically proclaims the week of May 3, 2021, as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week, aiming to educate the public on the challenges faced by those affected by this potentially debilitating condition.
The resolution reflects a consensus on the importance of health awareness but does not carry legislative weight as it does not propose any binding regulations. The acknowledgment of TD suggests a growing recognition of mental health issues within state governance; however, stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of awareness initiatives versus direct actions, such as funding or resources for research and care. This initiative could open discussions on broader statewide mental health policies and the allocation of resources to support those living with TD.