Delaware Senate Bill SCR66

Delaware 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/8/25
• Engrossed: 5/8/25

Caption

Designating The First Full Week Of May As "tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" In Delaware.

Impact

The resolution underscores the critical need for routine TD screenings as recommended by the American Psychiatric Association. Highlighting the statistics, the bill notes that approximately 60% of individuals living with TD remain undiagnosed, particularly affecting demographics like older adults, women, and those with mental health disorders. By designating a specific week for awareness, the resolution aims to facilitate discussions about the necessity of TD screenings and potential treatment options that can enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.

Summary

SCR66 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that designates the first full week of May as 'Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week' in Delaware. This resolution aims to bring attention to tardive dyskinesia (TD), a condition associated with the prolonged use of antipsychotic medications. It highlights the importance of early detection and intervention in improving the quality of life for individuals who may be living with this condition, which can include uncontrollable and abnormal movements of the body. Furthermore, the resolution calls for increased awareness and education around TD screening and management among healthcare providers and the community at large.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR66 is largely supportive, as it addresses an essential and often overlooked aspect of mental health management. Advocates for the resolution emphasize that increasing awareness regarding TD can promote better health outcomes and reduce stigma associated with the condition. Acknowledging TD's debilitating effects can lead to improved support for communities grappling with mental health issues and receiving antipsychotic treatments.

Contention

While the resolution is framed positively, there may be points of contention regarding funding for awareness campaigns and the implementation of routine screening practices. Discussions may arise about how to effectively educate healthcare providers and the public, especially in underserved communities, ensuring that individuals at risk can receive the proper attention and resources necessary to manage their health effectively. Nonetheless, SCR66 represents a proactive approach to addressing the needs of those affected by tardive dyskinesia.