# Plain Language Summary: Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week

This resolution simply designates the week of May 1-7, 2023, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week." It's a symbolic gesture from Congress to draw attention to a medical condition that many people have never heard of but affects thousands of Americans.

Tardive dyskinesia is a serious side effect that can develop in people taking certain psychiatric medications, particularly antipsychotics used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The condition causes involuntary, repetitive movements—like facial grimacing, lip smacking, tongue protrusion, or jerky limb movements—that can be distressing and sometimes permanent. The problem is that many patients and even some doctors don't fully understand this risk, so people may not realize what's happening to them or know they should talk to their doctor about it.

By officially recognizing this awareness week, Congress is encouraging doctors, patient advocacy groups, pharmaceutical companies, and the media to educate the public about tardive dyskinesia—what causes it, how to recognize it, and what treatment options exist. This doesn't change any laws or create new programs; it's essentially Congress saying "this health issue matters and deserves attention." The hope is that increased awareness will help patients catch the condition early, have better conversations with their doctors about medication risks, and ultimately make more informed decisions about their treatment.

A resolution designating the week of May 1, 2023, through May 7, 2023, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week".

Mullin, Markwayne

 <p>This resolution designates Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary and uncontrolled movements of muscles in the face, torso, and extremities. It is caused by prolonged use of certain medications, including ones used to treat schizophrenia.</p>