TD Awareness
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is an involuntary movement disorder that is associated with prolonged use of certain mental health medicines (antipsychotics) that can be used to treat bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. TD is characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal, and repetitive movements of the face, torso, and/or other
body parts.
Neurocrine Biosciences Supports TD
Awareness
Week
Neurocrine Biosciences is committed to bringing awareness to TD every day, but especially during Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week (TDAW). Every year, we recognize the first week of May as another opportunity to raise awareness and education about TD.
We aren’t the only ones who support this mission. Over the years, all 50 states, Washington, DC, and various mental health advocacy organizations have declared the first week in May as TD Awareness Week. To follow and join the conversation on social media, search for #TDAwarenessWeek.
The Impact of TD
TD affects approximately 600,000 people in the U.S., and nearly 70%, or 7 out of 10 Americans living with TD, have not yet been diagnosed. Although TD can look or feel different from day to day, it is a chronic condition and symptoms may be persistent.
TD movements may be rapid and jerky, or slow and writhing. In a survey, people with diagnosed or suspected TD reported the movement disorder moderately to extremely affected them in the following areas:*
44% Ability to work†
51% Ability to sleep†
44% Ability to leave the house†
TD can impact people physically, socially, and emotionally.‡ Symptoms can make them feel embarrassed or judged by others and, in some cases, lead them to withdraw from society and isolate themselves from the outside world.‡§‖¶
FAQ
What is TD?
TD is an involuntary movement disorder that is associated with prolonged use of certain mental health medicines (antipsychotics). TD is characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal, and repetitive movements of the face, torso, and/or other body parts.
Who is at risk for developing TD?
People living with a mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, who take antipsychotics for a prolonged period of time may develop TD. Other prescription medicines used to treat upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting (metoclopramide and prochlorperazine) may also cause TD. Other factors may also play a role in an individual’s risk for TD:
Why is it important to prioritize TD awareness?
Despite the number of people impacted by the condition, many people are still unfamiliar with TD. However, for people living with TD, their families, and their care partners, it is important to know that they are not alone. Approximately 70%, or 7 out of 10 people living with TD in the U.S., have not yet been diagnosed. Increasing awareness will help more people get the diagnosis and help that they need.
When is TD Awareness Week?
Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week (TDAW) is the first week of May. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, which brings attention to the 1 in 5 U.S. adults who live with a mental illness. As we work to increase awareness and support for those impacted by mental health conditions, it is important to remember that those who are living with a mental illness and taking antipsychotics for a prolonged period of time may develop or already have TD.
How many states have recognized TD Awareness Week?
All 50 states and Washington, DC, have declared the first week in May as TD Awareness Week.
Where can I learn more about TD?
To learn more about TD and hear real stories from people with TD, visit TalkAboutTD.com. Healthcare professionals can also visit MIND-TD.com to learn more about TD.
Download these resources for more information about TD and
TD Awareness Week.
Trials
