The Wisconsin Legislature has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 32, which designates the first full week in May as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. This resolution highlights the connection between the use of antipsychotic medications, which are often necessary for managing serious mental illnesses, and the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia (TD), a condition characterized by uncontrollable movements. It emphasizes that certain populations, including older adults and individuals with specific mental health conditions, are at a higher risk for TD, and notes that a significant number of those affected remain undiagnosed.
The resolution calls for increased awareness and education regarding TD among healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers, advocating for routine screenings as recommended by the American Psychiatric Association. By designating this week, the Wisconsin Legislature aims to promote early detection and intervention, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals living with TD and ensuring they receive appropriate care aligned with clinical best practices.