Condition
Tourette's
Tics aren't on purpose — and they aren't who you are.
Tourette's involves involuntary motor and vocal tics that wax and wane. Stress, excitement, and being watched often crank the volume up. CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics) teaches awareness and gentle competing responses.
What it can feel like
- Urge that builds before a tic
- Tic explosions after holding it in
- Tired from masking all day
Things worth remembering
- "Tics rise and fall — a hard week isn't a setback."
- "Suppression costs energy. Plan for rest."
- "You don't owe anyone an explanation in public."
Telling someone new
"Heads up — I have tics. They're involuntary."
"The kindest thing is to act like you didn't notice."
"I'll let you know if I need anything."
Tools that tend to help
More to explore