[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 87 (Wednesday, May 19, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H2558]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                BRINGING AWARENESS TO TARDIVE DYSKINESIA

  (Mr. PETERS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise during Mental Health Awareness Month 
to bring attention to tardive dyskinesia, or TD, a persistent and 
potentially disabling movement disorder that can be a side effect of 
medications prescribed to treat mental illness.
  According to a survey of people diagnosed with TD, more than half 
reported that the disorder seriously disrupts their sleep and their 
ability to work. People living with TD often face stigma, which can 
worsen mental health symptoms and cause withdrawal from society.
  While TD affects over half a million people in the United States, it 
remains a relatively unknown condition, often unrecognized, and 
patients suffering from the illness may be misdiagnosed.
  Earlier this month, Senator Chris Murphy introduced S. 184, 
recognizing the week of May 2 to May 8 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness 
Week.
  Improving awareness and understanding of TD will help reduce the 
stigma of mental illness and help us provide better treatment to this 
underserved patient population.

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