Updated on October 26, 2026.
If you are living with tardive dyskinesia (TD) and have ever felt like you have been judged or treated unfairly because of your symptoms, you have experienced stigma.
Stigma is social disapproval or negative attitudes directed at a person or group for perceived differences. It can take different forms and there are many words that can be used to describe it. Examples include prejudice, discriminatory attitudes, discriminatory behaviors, disapproval, judgement, bias, “othering,” and negative stereotypes.
Stigma can be associated with many different aspects of a person’s identity, like race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, medical conditions, and countless others. It can also be directed at loved ones.
People with TD often face stigma
TD causes involuntary movements that frequently affect the face and can also affect other parts of the body like the limbs and trunk. A person may make repetitive facial movements, expressions, or sounds. They may have restless movements while sitting still, such as rocking or thrusting the hips. They may tap their fingers or feet.
While these movements are involuntary and uncontrollable, a person can nonetheless be subjected to unfair and undeserved attention in social settings or public places. Experiences like this can contribute to psychological distress, social isolation, and worsening mental health.
Stigma and underlying health conditions
People with TD may also face stigma for an underlying medical condition.
TD is a side effect of taking certain medications, and it is most commonly associated with neuroleptic medications, also known as antipsychotics. These medications are used to treat serious mental illnesses, notably schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Certain antidepressants are also associated with TD. Mental illnesses rank among the most stigmatized medical conditions.
TD is also associated with medications used to treat a number of other health conditions, including a GI disorder called gastroparesis, seizure disorders, and Parkinson’s disease. These conditions can have their own associated stigmas.
Stigma can also affect treatment for underlying conditions, making a person less likely to adhere to a treatment plan. Stopping or reducing neuroleptics or other TD-associated medications can cause symptoms to become more severe, potentially creating a cycle of worsening symptoms and worsening mental health.
The different forms of stigma
Stigma can take a number of forms, and each can have their own consequences.
- Public stigma. This refers to negative attitudes or judgement a person may experience in a social setting or public place.
- Self-stigma. This occurs when a person internalizes negative beliefs. For example, feelings of shame or low self-esteem resulting from their condition.
- Structural stigma. Institutional practices and policies can also be discriminatory. For example, policies that make it more difficult for a person to access treatment for a mental illness like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Strategies to help address stigma
As a person living with TD or a loved one of someone living with TD, there are steps you can take to address stigma that you encounter or experience:
- Stick with treatment. TD requires treatment, and it can become more severe if left untreated. Working with a healthcare provider should always be your number one priority.
- Make addressing stigma a part of treatment. Mental health and social support are critical parts of treatment for TD. Many people with TD will already be working with a psychiatrist, but even those who aren’t should strongly consider talking to a counselor or therapist. This presents an opportunity to discuss your personal experiences with stigma.
- Build your support network. Social support often comes from friends and loved ones. Also consider participating in a support group for people with TD, other movement disorders, or underlying conditions you are managing.
Patient education is also important. Keep learning about TD and consider the ways that you can share what you learn with other people. Education and awareness can promote better understanding.
