When people hear the term “Tourette’s,” their first thought is often of someone shouting out inappropriate words or phrases. But that’s just one of many common misconceptions.
We think it’s really important to educate people on Tourette Syndrome and that’s why we are joining with Tourette Action to host a live webinar on Tuesday 10 June.
Full details of the webinar and to buy tickets, visit here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supporting-tourette-syndrome-tickets-1001219473397
What is Tourette Syndrome?
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a genetically determined neurological condition that causes a person to make involuntary sounds and movements called tics. These can range from blinking, throat clearing and shoulder shrugging to more complex physical or vocal expressions. While the media has often focused on the most extreme symptoms, for many people with Tourette’s, their experience is far more nuanced.
According to Tourette Action, TS affects one school child in every hundred and is more common amongst boys. Over 300,000 children and adults are living with TS in the UK.
How does it start?
Tourette’s usually begins in childhood, often between the ages of 5 and 10. It’s more common than you might think and in 85% of people it coexists with other neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD, OCD, or anxiety. For parents navigating the SEND system, understanding Tourette’s can be an essential part of supporting their child’s needs.
What are the common misconceptions?
So many people associate Tourette’s with involuntary swearing, or coprolalia, to use the clinical term. But actually a massive 90% of people who have TS do not have coprolalia. This staggering statistic shows how much misunderstanding there is around this condition and how much people still need to learn.
How to secure a diagnosis?
For TS to be diagnosed, multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic must be present for at least 12 months. As such, it’s important to keep a diary noting down what you are seeing before you go to the GP. They’ll then refer you on for formal diagnosis which is undertaken through evaluation and using a rating scale to assess the tic severity.
Want to find out more?
On Tuesday 10 June, we will be joined by Lucy Toghill from Tourette’s Action who will cover:
- What Tourette Syndrome actually is — beyond the stereotypes
- Common misconceptions and the harm they can cause
- The hidden challenges children with Tourette’s may face at school and beyond
- How Tourette’s can affect focus, learning, confidence, and relationships
- The kinds of support available in education, at home, and in the wider community
- Practical strategies you can implement at home and in school settings
- How to effectively advocate for your child and secure the right support in school
- The co-occurring conditions that often accompany Tourette’s — and why recognising them matters
Whether your child has recently been diagnosed, you suspect they may be showing signs, or you’re working with young people who live with Tourette’s — this webinar will give you the tools and understanding to support them with confidence and compassion.
Grab your tickets here now: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supporting-tourette-syndrome-tickets-1001219473397
