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STATE OF MAINE
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IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD
TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR
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JOINT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING MAY 5, 2024 TO MAY 11,
2024 AS TARDIVE DYSKINESIA AWARENESS WEEK
WHEREAS, many people living with serious mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder,
major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, or gastrointestinal
disorders such as gastroparesis, upset stomach, nausea and vomiting may be treated with
medications that work as dopamine receptor blocking agents, including antipsychotics and
antiemetics; and
WHEREAS, while ongoing treatment with these medications can be necessary, prolonged
use is associated with tardive dyskinesia, an involuntary movement disorder that is
characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs
and fingers or toes; and
WHEREAS, it is important that people taking these medications be monitored for tardive
dyskinesia by a health care provider. Regular screening for tardive dyskinesia is recommended
by the American Psychiatric Association; and
WHEREAS, even mild symptoms of tardive dyskinesia can impact people physically,
socially and emotionally; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that tardive dyskinesia affects approximately 600,000 people
in the United States, and approximately 65% of people with tardive dyskinesia have not been
diagnosed, making it important to raise awareness about the symptoms; and
WHEREAS, clinical research has led to approval of treatments for adults with tardive
dyskinesia by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and recognition and treatment
of tardive dyskinesia can make a positive impact in the lives of many people experiencing
psychotic and mood disorders; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-first Legislature now
assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this
opportunity to designate May 5, 2024 to May 11, 2024 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week
and respectfully encourage anyone experiencing uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive
movements to consult their health care provider regarding their symptoms.