Governor Proclaims Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week 2021

WHEREAS, Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a condition characterized by involuntary muscle movements of the face, torso, and extremities that can vary in frequency and amplitude; and

WHEREAS, TD is a condition that may occur with certain medications used to treat mental illness; TD results from treatment with dopamine receptor blocking agents used for both psychiatric and non-psychiatric conditions, and can persist even after discontinuing treatment; and

WHEREAS, research done by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights shows that more than 12 million Americans take antipsychotics and that more than 500,000 of those patients may have TD; and

WHEREAS, anyone taking an antipsychotic medication may develop TD, but the elderly, women, and individuals with a mental illness are at a greater risk of developing TD; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages individuals and organizations to raise awareness and educate others on this condition, and to support those affected by it;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 2 – 9, 2021, as “TARDIVE DYSKINESIA AWARENESS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.