Relative to Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.
By designating a specific week to raise awareness about Tardive Dyskinesia, SR67 seeks to inform the public and the medical community about the risks associated with DRBA medications and the challenges faced by those affected by TD. It is estimated that over 500,000 Americans suffer from the condition, with studies showing that between 10 to 30 percent of patients receiving long-term antipsychotic treatment may develop TD. This resolution serves not only to educate individuals about the symptoms and management of TD but also to encourage healthcare professionals to recognize and properly diagnose the disorder, preventing misdiagnosis and fostering better patient outcomes.
Senate Resolution No. 67, introduced by Senator Archuleta, aims to establish the week of May 1, 2022, as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in California. The resolution acknowledges the serious implications of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder that may arise as a side effect of medications used to treat chronic mental illnesses, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It highlights the importance of raising public awareness regarding TD, a condition that affects a significant number of patients undergoing treatment with dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs). The resolution details the characteristics of TD, common risk factors, and the crucial need for regular screening to facilitate early detection and management of the disorder.
The sentiment around SR67 is largely positive among members of the Senate and mental health advocates who support increased awareness and recognition of Tardive Dyskinesia. The resolution underscores the need for compassion and understanding for those living with TD, particularly given the social stigma that may accompany the disorder's physical symptoms. While the resolution itself does not create any new laws or mandates, it reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by mental health issues and their caregivers by promoting knowledge and support.
Although the resolution is typically not contentious and passed unanimously with a vote of 33-0, it addresses broader issues surrounding mental health and the treatment of chronic mental illnesses. Critics of DRBA medications may argue for the need for alternative treatments or more robust safeguards to prevent adverse effects like TD. However, the general consensus is that increasing awareness and ensuring proper screening are vital for addressing the challenges associated with Tardive Dyskinesia, fostering a better understanding of mental health disorders in the public sphere.