Find information on what tardive dyskinesia is, what causes it and what you can do to manage it.
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Living with tardive dyskinesia (TD) can be really difficult. But even if you experience it for a long time, there are still things that could help you manage symptoms and cope day-to-day.
This page covers some self-care suggestions for you to consider:
Everyone experiences TD differently – not all of these suggestions will help everyone. What's important is finding what works best for you.
Many people with TD find that symptoms are worse or more difficult to manage in times of stress. Stress can sometimes be unavoidable, but it may help to find ways to manage stress when possible.
For more information on what you might find helpful, see our pages on how to manage stress. You might also find it useful to read our information on relaxation techniques.
"My 'gurning' has become a bit of a joke in the family and although not everyone can, I find it helps to just laugh about it! Although this doesn't help with the physical pain it helps with the anxiety TD brings."
Looking after your physical health can reduce stress. As well as this, some people find it can also make TD easier to manage. Try to:
These factors can all help your physical health. They are also beneficial to your mental health in general.
For more information on looking after your physical health, see our information on everyday living.
"My wife massaged my neck and arms after the episodes to help with the discomfort."
Some people with TD find that the symptoms make certain tasks very difficult to manage. These are some adaptations which may help with daily activities and tasks:
The National Tremor Foundation website offers a longer list of tips for everyday living.
For more suggestions on adapting tasks to make them easier, see Parkinson's UK and the National Tremor Foundation.
Some of these suggestions involve purchasing equipment. If your TD is considered a disability, you may be able to get grants or benefits to help with the costs. For more information, see our pages on money and mental health.
"I have never found anything to help me manage TD but as I have grown older I have found it slightly easier to cope with."
You could try contacting a specialist organisation for support for your symptoms, or your diagnosis. You might also find it useful to connect with others who have experienced TD.
Depending on what sort of support you find useful, you could contact:
For more information, see our page on useful contacts for TD.
This information was published in December 2021. We will revise it in 2024.
References and bibliography available on request.
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