HR 135: Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at the state capitol; 2/3/25; recognize

This House resolution designates February 3, 2025 as Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at the Georgia state capitol. Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome (TSWS), also called Topical Steroid Addiction or Red Skin Syndrome, is a condition that can develop from using topical steroids, which are common treatments for skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, and alopecia areata. The resolution describes the syndrome's severe symptoms, its long recovery time, and its mental health toll, citing figures on anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among sufferers. It also notes that limited research on the condition makes diagnosis and treatment harder. The resolution does not create any new law, funding, or program; it directs the Clerk of the House to make copies available to the public and press.

• Formally recognizes February 3, 2025 as Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at the Georgia state capitol.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and distribute copies of the resolution to the public and press.
• Does not create any new state program, funding, regulation, or legal requirement; it is a symbolic statement by the House.

People who experience Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome and their families, dermatology and other healthcare patients who use topical steroids, and healthcare providers who prescribe or discuss these treatments. The resolution itself has no direct legal effect on any group.

While the resolution carries no legal force, it puts official attention on a lesser-known condition tied to common skin treatments. That recognition could help raise public and provider awareness, though the text itself does not fund research, require education, or change medical practice.

• Describes Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome, including symptoms like skin flushing, inflammation, and intense itching or burning.
• Cites statistics that 81 percent of adults and 56 percent of children with TSWS report anxiety or depression, and 47 percent of adults and 11 percent of children report suicidal ideation.
• Notes that limited published research hinders diagnosis, understanding of causes, treatment protocols, and provider and patient education.
• Resolves that the House recognizes February 3, 2025 as Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at the state capitol.
• Directs the Clerk of the House to make copies of the resolution available for distribution to the public and press.

1. 2025-02-03House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2025-02-03House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-02-03House Hopper (House)

• Soo Hong (R, HD-103)Primary sponsor

• public health awareness
• skin conditions
• dermatology
• mental health
• state capitol resolutions