Living Your Best Life When You Have Tardive Dyskinesia
Feb 06, 2025
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological condition that causes involuntary, repetitive movements, often affecting the face, mouth, tongue, or limbs. This movement disorder affects about 600,000 Americans, but about 65% of people with TD have never been diagnosed.
Although TD can have challenging symptoms, living a fulfilling life with TD is entirely possible with the right approach, mindset, and support.
Here at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache, our team has the expertise and experience to walk alongside you and provide the treatment, guidance, and care you need. Here’s what we want you to know:
TD often arises as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications, particularly antipsychotics or other dopamine-blocking drugs.
Symptoms include:
These movements can be subtle or severe. When you know the root cause of your symptoms, you can have informed conversations with our team about your treatment options.
Our team can play a vital role in managing TD. We can adjust your medication regimen, recommend treatments like VMAT2 inhibitors (which help reduce symptoms), or suggest therapies like ketamine infusions tailored to your needs.
Ketamine infusions modulate glutamate, a key neurotransmitter in brain signaling, which can help restore balance in your nervous system. This treatment can help reduce the involuntary movements associated with TD while also addressing co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety, which are common in individuals with TD.
We also recommend regular check-ins with our team to ensure the treatment option you choose remains effective and minimizes disruptions to your life.
Living with TD is easier when you have a supportive community. Talk openly with your family and friends about your condition, so they understand what you’re experiencing.
Join online or local support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing your journey and learning from others can be uplifting and provide practical tips for coping.
You can help manage TD by caring for your overall well-being with regular exercise, particularly low-impact activities like yoga or swimming.
It’s also important to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and consider mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing to ease stress and enhance emotional resilience.
Sometimes, living your best life with TD involves adapting to changes. If TD affects your ability to perform specific tasks, explore tools and techniques that make everyday activities more manageable. Occupational therapy can teach you ways to navigate challenges and maintain independence.
Though living with TD can be frustrating, it doesn’t have to define you. Celebrate your achievements, big or small, and focus on what you can control. Pursue hobbies and activities that bring you joy, and remember that every step forward is a victory.
Be your own advocate by staying informed and proactive. Learn about new treatments, ask questions during medical appointments, and speak up about your needs. The more involved you are in your care, the more empowered you’ll feel. With the right tools and mindset, a vibrant, fulfilling life is within reach.
Click here to consult with a professional from our team in Stanford or Westport, Connecticut, to learn more. We’re here to help!