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James Plastiras Director of Public Information New York State Office of Mental Health 518-474-6540 james.plastiras@omh.ny.gov

May 02, 2022

New York State Landmarks to be Lit in Blue for Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that New York State landmarks will be lit in blue on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 to help raise awareness of tardive dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder characterized by a range of repetitive muscle movements in the face, neck, arms, and legs. TD primarily occurs as a side effect of long-term use of certain antipsychotic medications as well as medications used to treat nausea and neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease. People who are elderly, female, diabetic, or have a mental illness are at a greater risk of developing TD.   

Fortunately, there are medical treatments available to address TD and individuals experiencing symptoms should talk to their healthcare provider.

Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the NYS Office of Mental Health, said, “Almost every medication carries a risk of side-effects, even the most effective treatments that help people with very severe illnesses. Anyone who feels their medication may be causing TD should talk to their prescribing doctor, who may be able to provide different treatment options, or offer medication that will help to alleviate TD symptoms. Most people have never heard of TD, and I’m pleased Governor Hochul is helping to raise awareness.”

TD is also related to prolonged use of medications for nausea, and medications that treat neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease.  The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) estimates that more than 600,000 Americans suffer from TD, and people who are elderly, female, diabetic, or have a mental illness are at a greater risk of developing it.  If you notice new, involuntary movements of your limbs, face or neck, talk to your healthcare provider.

Landmarks to be lit:

  • Empire State Building
  • One World Trade Center
  • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
  • Kosciuszko Bridge
  • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
  • State Education Building
  • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
  • State Fairgrounds - Main Gate and Expo Center
  • Niagara Falls
  • The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
  • Grand Central Terminal - Pershing Square Viaduct
  • Albany International Airport Gateway
  • MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station

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