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 serious mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and the use of antipsychotic medications, which can lead to tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is characterized by uncontrollable and abnormal movements, and it disproportionately affects certain populations, including older adults, Black individuals, and those with specific mental health conditions. Alarmingly, around 60% of the estimated 800,000 adults in the U.S. living with TD remain undiagnosed, emphasizing the need for early screening and intervention.

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. It also encourages individuals on antipsychotic medications to consult their healthcare providers about their risk for TD and the available FDA-approved treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. By designating this awareness week, the Wisconsin Legislature aims to improve outcomes for individuals affected by mental health conditions and promote best practices in care related to antipsychotic treatment.