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 (DRBAs) used for both psychiatric and non-psychiatric conditions, and can persist even after discontinuing treatment; 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, it is estimated that over 600,000 Americans suffer from TD; according to the National Alliance for Mental Illness, one in every four patients receiving long-term treatment with an antipsychotic medication will experience TD; and
WHEREAS, years of research have resulted in recent scientific breakthroughs, with two new treatments for TD approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration; and
WHEREAS, TD is often unrecognized and patients suffering from the illness are commonly misdiagnosed; regular screening for TD in patients taking DRBA medications is recommended by the American Psychiatric Association (APA); and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages individuals and organizations to raise awareness and educate others of Tardive Dyskinesia, and to support those affected by it;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 1 – 7, 2023, as “TARDIVE DYSKINESIA AWARENESS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.