1. Do a Movement Check-In Once a Day
Limit yourself to checking in on symptoms once a day, max, says Dr. Hallak. “Frequent checking can be stressful and can increase anxiety, which by itself will make movements worse.”
This check-in can be as simple as a quick note on your phone, says Anis. “An occasional short video can also be very useful, particularly because movements may look different at home than they do during a clinic visit.”
Record movement details, locations, and patterns instead of asking, “Is my TD better or worse today?” says Anis. “Ask yourself whether something has changed in your ability to eat, speak, walk, work, sleep, socialize, or participate in activities that matter to you.”
2. De-Stress With Mindfulness
Our experts also recommend these stress-relieving activities:
- Go for a walk.
- Listen to music.
- Spend time with family or friends.
- Take a quick break from work or chores.
Pick stress-reducing activities you enjoy and can do daily. “The best stress-management technique is often the one that someone will actually use consistently,” says Anis.
3. Eat Balanced Meals and Stay Hydrated
- Whole grains
- Lean protein
- Fruits and vegetables
You may notice your movements get worse with stimulants like caffeine, so limit your intake, especially close to bedtime, says Hallak. She also recommends avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, as they also affect the part of the nervous system that regulates dopamine (dopaminergic system) and is negatively affected in TD; using such substances can worsen movements and interfere with treatment.
