Relative to Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.
The resolution encourages public and medical communities to become more informed about the symptoms and implications of Tardive Dyskinesia, thereby aiming to improve outcomes for those affected. By designating a specific awareness week, the bill intends to foster discussions around TD, offering educational efforts directed at both medical professionals and the general public. Regular screenings of patients on dopamine receptor blocking agents are considered vital and are recommended by the American Psychiatric Association, which the resolution seeks to promote.
House Resolution No. 19, introduced by Assembly Member Boerner Horvath on March 7, 2023, aims to establish the week of May 7, 2023, as 'Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.' The resolution seeks to highlight and raise awareness about Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder that can occur as a side effect of medications commonly used to treat mental health conditions. These include antipsychotic medications that work by blocking dopamine receptors, which are essential in regulating movement. Given that approximately 600,000 individuals in the U.S. are affected by TD, with many remaining undiagnosed, the resolution emphasizes the importance of early detection and awareness of the condition.
As a resolution, rather than a binding piece of legislation, AR19 does not impose new laws or regulations but aims to increase awareness and promote education surrounding Tardive Dyskinesia. Its passage received unanimous support with 13 votes in favor, indicating a shared recognition among legislators of the importance of mental health issues and the impact of medication side effects. The establishment of awareness weeks such as this may serve to advocate for further research, better diagnosis techniques, and more comprehensive care options, but may not address immediate needs for those currently affected by TD.