Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a potentially irreversible movement disorder caused by antipsychotic medications, marked by involuntary, repetitive movements that can significantly impair quality of life. This study aimed to assess how TD-related movements influence others' perceptions in social and professional settings. Using a randomized, blinded digital survey, general population participants viewed videos of actors simulating either TD or no TD movements and then responded to questions related to employment, dating, and friendship. Separate assessments were conducted for mild-to-moderate and moderate-to-severe TD, with expert physicians confirming the authenticity and severity of the simulated movements using Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale scores.

Researchers found that participants consistently responded more negatively to individuals displaying TD movements across all domains. Compared to control participants, those who viewed actors with TD movements were significantly less likely to consider them for employment, find them attractive, or express interest in friendship. This trend held true regardless of the severity of TD. The results suggest that visible TD symptoms may contribute to stigma, social isolation, and reduced life opportunities. As the first randomized study to quantify the social and professional consequences of TD, these findings highlight the need for increased awareness and strategies to address stigma in this population.

Reference: Ayyagari R, Goldschmidt D, Mu F, Caroff SN, Carroll B. An Experimental Study to Assess the Professional and Social Consequences of Tardive Dyskinesia. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2022;20(1):154-166. doi: 10.9758/cpn.2022.20.1.154.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD), a persistent involuntary movement disorder linked to long-term antipsychotic use, is often underreported or misdiagnosed in routine clinical practice. This retrospective study analyzed electronic health records (EHRs) from over 32,000 US adults with psychotic disorders who were prescribed antipsychotics between 1999 and 2021. Researchers identified patients with either abnormal movements suggestive of TD or documented TD through manual review of clinical notes. While 1,301 patients had clinical indicators of TD in unstructured EHR data, only 64 (4.9%) of them had a formal ICD-coded diagnosis—indicating a significant gap in diagnosis and documentation.

Findings suggest racial and clinical setting disparities in TD diagnosis. Black/African American patients were significantly less likely to receive an ICD-TD diagnosis compared to white patients. Patients treated at community mental health centers were more likely to receive a diagnosis than those treated at academic medical centers. These results underscore the need for improved recognition and documentation of TD in clinical settings to ensure timely intervention and equitable access to treatment. Better diagnostic practices could help identify patients who may benefit from newer therapeutic options for managing TD.

Reference: Griffiths K, Won Y, Lee Z, Wang L, Correll CU, Patel R. Identifying the diagnostic gap of tardive dyskinesia: an analysis of semi-structured electronic health record data. BMC Psychiatry. 2025;25(1):407. doi: 10.1186/s12888-025-06780-w.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is often underrecognized in long-term care despite its substantial impact on older adults, many of whom are prescribed antipsychotics for various conditions. These medications, frequently used beyond their original indications, can trigger TD even after short-term or low-dose exposure. With a growing population of residents with chronic mental illness and extended antipsychotic use, regular screening—such as with the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale—is essential. It’s equally important to distinguish TD from other movement disorders like dystonia or akathisia, as their treatments may worsen TD.

TD symptoms can range from subtle facial movements to more disabling limb or trunk motions, often interfering with daily activities and contributing to isolation. Many residents experience a decline in independence, and caregivers also report emotional and functional burdens. The RE-KINECT study reinforces this dual impact. Fortunately, FDA-approved VMAT2 inhibitors offer effective treatment, even in older adults. As seen in the case of Sophia, early intervention can significantly improve both physical symptoms and emotional well-being. Collaboration among clinicians and caregivers is key to identifying TD early and restoring quality of life.

Reference: Patel A, Whitt T. Burden and Impact of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) in Older Adults in Long-Term Care Settings. Caring for the Ages. 2025;26(3):16-17. doi: 10.1016/j.carage.2025.04.016.