A Simple Guide to Tourettes: What to Know

A Simple Guide to Tourette's: What to Know

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Tourette syndrome affects everyone differently, and information here is general. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as your GP or a specialist neurologist or psychiatrist, for any personal concerns about symptoms, diagnosis, or management. This information is accurate as of December 2025.

Table of Contents

• What is Tourette Syndrome?

• Recognising the Symptoms: Tics and How They Appear

• Causes and Risk Factors

• Getting a Diagnosis

• Living with Tourette Syndrome: Daily Life and Management

• Help and Further Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Conclusion

What is Tourette Syndrome?

Tourette syndrome (often called Tourette's or TS) is a neurological condition that affects how the brain and nerves work together. It leads to sudden, repetitive movements or sounds known as tics, which happen without the person intending them to. These tics can feel hard to control, and it's completely normal to feel worried or overwhelmed if you or your child starts showing these signs—many families feel anxious at first, but learning about the condition often helps ease those concerns.

The condition is named after Georges Gilles de la Tourette, a French neurologist who first described it in the late 1800s. Symptoms usually begin in childhood, typically between the ages of 5 and 7, though they can start as early as 3 or as late as adolescence. It affects boys more often than girls, with research showing a ratio of around 4 boys to every 1 girl in childhood.

How Common is Tourette's?

In the UK, Tourette's affects about one school child in every hundred, meaning over 300,000 children and adults live with the condition across the country. This figure comes from organisations like Tourettes Action and aligns with studies showing a prevalence of around 1% in children. Milder cases sometimes go unnoticed, so the true number could be higher, but it's as common as conditions like autism or childhood epilepsy.

What Causes It?

Tourette's isn't anyone's fault—it's not due to poor parenting, stress from "nerves", or past experiences in the way some outdated views once suggested. It's a brain-based condition with a strong genetic link, meaning it often runs in families. If someone has Tourette's, there's roughly a 50% chance of passing the related genes to their children, though not everyone who inherits them will develop full symptoms. Environmental factors can also play a role alongside genetics, but the exact mix varies from person to person.

It's important to know that not everyone with tics has Tourette syndrome. Some people experience milder or shorter-term tic disorders that improve on their own.

A Positive Outlook for Many

One of the most reassuring aspects of Tourette's is how symptoms often change over time. Tics tend to wax and wane—meaning there are better periods and more challenging ones, which is a normal part of the condition. Research shows that for most people, symptoms peak in severity around late childhood or early teens and then start to improve.

Many children and young people see a significant reduction in tics as they move into late adolescence or early adulthood. Studies following patients over years indicate that around three-quarters experience milder symptoms by adulthood, with some seeing substantial improvement or even periods where tics are minimal.

In some cases, tics lessen so much that they no longer meet the criteria for a diagnosis, allowing individuals to lead lives without noticeable interference from the condition. Long-term follow-up research highlights a generally positive prognosis, especially when supported early.

Of course, for others, tics may continue into adulthood, but with the right understanding, strategies, and support, people with Tourette's achieve great things—whether in education, work, relationships, or personal goals. Famous examples include successful athletes, musicians, and professionals who manage the condition effectively.

Living with Tourette's is manageable for the vast majority, and early knowledge can make a big difference in feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed. If you're noticing tics in yourself or a loved one, speaking to your GP is a good next step—they can guide you towards specialist support if needed.

Recognising the Symptoms: Tics and How They Appear

Tics are the hallmark of Tourette syndrome—the sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that happen without full control. They come in two main types: motor tics (physical movements) and vocal tics (sounds). For someone to receive a diagnosis of full Tourette's, they need to have experienced both motor and vocal tics at some point, alongside meeting other criteria that we'll touch on later. If you're spotting these in your child or yourself, it's natural to feel concerned at first—many parents worry when they notice repeated blinking or unusual sounds, but understanding what tics really are often brings some relief.

Tics vary a lot from person to person, and they can change over time. They often start subtly and might be mistaken for habits, allergies, or even nervousness. Recognising them early can help you seek the right support.

Types of Tics: Simple and Complex

Tics are usually grouped into simple (quick and involving just a few muscles) or complex (more coordinated and involving several muscle groups or sequences). Here's a closer look at each:

• Simple motor tics are brief and sudden, often starting in the face, head, or shoulders before spreading elsewhere. Common examples include rapid eye blinking, head jerking, shoulder shrugging, facial grimacing, nose twitching, or mouth opening. These are frequently the first tics to appear in children, and parents might initially think it's something like dry eyes or a nervous habit. Over time, as more tics develop, it becomes clearer that they're part of a pattern rather than isolated behaviours.

• Simple vocal tics involve short sounds made with the voice or throat. Examples include throat clearing, grunting, sniffing, coughing, barking, or yelping. These can easily be confused with a persistent cold, allergy, or throat irritation, which is why they're sometimes overlooked or misattributed in the early stages. Many families only realise it's a tic when it persists despite no signs of illness.

• Complex motor tics are more involved and might look like purposeful actions at first glance. They could include touching objects or people, jumping, bending or twisting the body, hopping, spinning, or repeating a sequence of movements (like a specific gesture done over and over). These often emerge after simple tics have been present for a while and can be more noticeable in social settings.

• Complex vocal tics involve words, phrases, or more elaborate sounds. Examples include repeating others' words or phrases (echolalia), repeating one's own words (palilalia), saying syllables or random words out of context, or even changing the pitch or volume of speech unusually. In rarer cases, this might include uttering socially inappropriate words or phrases.

One widespread myth, often fuelled by TV and films, is that uncontrollable swearing (known as coprolalia) is common in Tourette's. In reality, it affects only about 1 in 10 people with the condition—far from the majority. This exaggeration can add unnecessary stigma, making everyday life harder for those who don't have it at all. Most tics are much milder and everyday-sounding.

How Tics Feel and Behave Over Time

Many people with Tourette's—around 90% of older children and adults—describe a premonitory urge before a tic: an uncomfortable building sensation, like an itch, tension, pressure, or "not quite right" feeling in a specific body part. Performing the tic often brings temporary relief, similar to scratching an itch or sneezing. Younger children might not notice or describe this urge as clearly, but it becomes more apparent with age.

Suppressing tics is possible for short periods, especially in older individuals, but it can feel tiring or build up pressure, leading to a stronger burst later. Tics aren't completely voluntary, though—they're more like a response to that inner urge, which is why telling someone to "just stop" doesn't help and can add frustration.

Tics also fluctuate naturally:

• They often worsen with stress, anxiety, excitement, fatigue, or boredom, while improving during calm, focused activities (like reading, playing music, or sports).

• Symptoms tend to wax and wane, with better weeks or months followed by tougher ones—this is completely normal and part of the condition.

• In most cases, tics first appear between ages 5 and 10, reach their peak severity around ages 10 to 12, and then gradually ease for many as they enter late teens or adulthood.

Clearing Up Common Misunderstandings

It's easy to misinterpret tics as attention-seeking, bad habits, or something the person could stop if they tried harder. In truth, they're neurological and largely involuntary, much like a hiccup or sneeze—you wouldn't blame someone for those. Punishing, scolding, or constantly reminding someone about their tics usually increases stress and makes them worse, not better.

Patience and understanding go a long way, whether at home, school, or with friends. Educating those around you about Tourette's helps reduce misunderstandings and creates a more supportive environment.

Causes and Risk Factors

No one knows the exact cause of Tourette syndrome, but it's clear that it's not something anyone "catches" like an illness, nor is it due to lifestyle choices, parenting, or anything a family has done wrong. If you're worried about why this has happened to you or your child, it's completely understandable—many parents feel a sense of guilt or confusion at first, but research shows it's a complex brain-based condition influenced by a combination of factors. Knowing more about these can help shift the focus to support and management rather than blame.

Tourette's is considered a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning it involves differences in how the brain develops and functions from early on. Current understanding points to a strong genetic component working alongside possible environmental influences.

The Role of Genetics

Genetics play a major part in Tourette's—it's often described as hereditary, with the condition tending to run in families. If someone in the family has Tourette's, there's roughly a 50% chance of passing on the related genes to each child, though not every child who inherits them will develop symptoms or full Tourette's. This is different from some genetic conditions where a single faulty gene causes the problem; in Tourette's, it's more complex, involving many small variations in multiple genes that together increase the risk.

Family studies show that relatives of people with Tourette's are more likely to have tics, obsessive-compulsive behaviours, or ADHD, even if they don't meet the full criteria for the condition. This suggests the genes can lead to a spectrum of related traits rather than just tics alone.

Recent research, including large-scale genetic studies, has identified overlaps with genes linked to other conditions like OCD and ADHD, reinforcing that Tourette's shares some biological roots with these.

Boys are affected more often than girls (around 3–4 times more commonly), and this sex difference seems tied to how genes are expressed, though the details are still being explored.

While genetics set the stage for vulnerability, they don't tell the whole story—not everyone with the genetic risk develops Tourette's, which points to other factors coming into play.

Brain Differences and Neurotransmitters

Brain imaging and studies have highlighted differences in areas involved in controlling movements, impulses, and habits. The basal ganglia—a group of structures deep in the brain that help regulate motor control and behaviour—are often implicated, showing variations in size, activity, or connectivity in people with Tourette's.

The brain chemical dopamine, which helps transmit signals in these circuits, appears to play a key role. There may be higher levels of dopamine activity or increased sensitivity to it in certain brain pathways, contributing to the involuntary tics.

Other neurotransmitters, like serotonin, GABA, glutamate, and histamine, are also being studied for their involvement, but dopamine remains one of the most researched.

These brain differences aren't something visible on standard scans, but they help explain why tics happen and why treatments targeting dopamine can sometimes reduce symptoms.

Possible Environmental Influences

Environmental factors don't cause Tourette's on their own, but they may interact with genetic vulnerability to influence whether symptoms appear or how severe they become. Research in this area is ongoing, and findings aren't always consistent, but some patterns have emerged from larger studies.

• Prenatal factors: Things like maternal smoking during pregnancy, high levels of stress for the mother, inadequate weight gain, or certain complications (such as infections or high blood pressure) have been linked in some studies to a higher risk. Low birth weight has also been associated, though not in every case.

• Perinatal factors: Complications around birth, like the need for forceps or lower Apgar scores, might play a role in severity for some individuals.

• Postnatal factors: While early ideas about infections (such as streptococcal) triggering sudden onset have been explored, evidence is mixed and not strong enough to confirm a direct cause. Psychosocial stress, however, clearly worsens tics in the short term for many people.

These factors are risk modifiers rather than direct causes, and more research is needed to understand how they interact with genes.

Common Co-occurring Conditions (Comorbidities)

Tourette's rarely comes alone—up to 85% of people with the condition also experience at least one other neurodevelopmental or mental health issue, known as comorbidities. These can sometimes affect daily life more than the tics themselves, so identifying them early is important for getting the right support.

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Affects around half or more of those with Tourette's. It involves difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity, often starting early and impacting school or focus.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or obsessive-compulsive behaviours: Common in 30–60% of cases. This might mean repetitive thoughts (obsessions) or actions (compulsions) that feel hard to control, like needing things "just right" or checking repeatedly.

• Other frequent comorbidities: Include anxiety, learning difficulties (such as dyslexia or challenges with handwriting), sleep problems, mood issues like depression, or behavioural challenges. Rage attacks or self-injurious behaviours can occur in some, often linked to frustration from tics or comorbidities.

These overlapping conditions often share genetic links with Tourette's, which is why they cluster together in families.

Getting a Diagnosis

If you're noticing tics in yourself or your child and they're causing concern, the first step is usually to book an appointment with your GP. It's completely understandable to feel anxious about this—many families worry that something serious is wrong, or even feel unsure about raising it with a doctor. Your GP can listen to your concerns, observe any visible signs, and help rule out other common explanations, such as allergies, eye problems, ear infections, or simple habits that children sometimes develop.

There's no quick blood test, brain scan, or lab work that can confirm Tourette syndrome. Instead, diagnosis relies on a detailed history of symptoms and careful observation over time. Specialists use established criteria to make sure the picture fits Tourette's rather than something else.

The Main Criteria for Diagnosing Tourette Syndrome

In the UK, clinicians generally follow international guidelines, such as those from the DSM-5 (widely used worldwide) or similar standards. For a full diagnosis of Tourette syndrome, the following need to be present:

• Both multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic (though not necessarily at the same time—these can come and go or change over time).

• Tics have been present for more than a year (they don't have to occur every single day, but the overall pattern must last longer than 12 months, with no tic-free period longer than three months).

• Symptoms started before the age of 18 (usually in childhood, often between 5 and 10 years old).

• The tics are not caused by substances (like certain medications or recreational drugs) or another medical condition (such as epilepsy, Huntington's disease, or post-viral issues).

These criteria help distinguish Tourette's from shorter-term tic disorders (which many children experience and outgrow naturally) or other movement conditions. If tics have only been around for less than a year, it might be classed as a provisional tic disorder, but monitoring continues.

The Diagnosis Process on the NHS

Your GP will often start by taking a thorough history and may suggest keeping a diary of tics (noting when they happen, how often, and any triggers). They might also recommend simple checks, like an eye test or allergy review.

If Tourette's or a tic disorder seems likely, your GP can refer you to a specialist. This is commonly a paediatrician (for children), neurologist, or child and adolescent psychiatrist. Some areas have dedicated tic or Tourette clinics, often linked to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) or neurology teams.

The specialist assessment involves detailed questions about the tics' onset, pattern, family history (since genetics play a role), and how they're affecting daily life—at home, school, or socially. They may ask to see videos of tics if they're not visible during the appointment, as many people suppress them in clinical settings.

Rating scales, like the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale, are sometimes used to measure how noticeable or disruptive the tics are. This helps guide any support needed.

Tests such as EEG (to check brain waves) or MRI scans are uncommon and only done if there's suspicion of another neurological issue. Blood tests might rule out rare mimics, but they're not routine.

Waiting times for specialist referrals vary across the UK, depending on your area and demand—some families get seen within months, while others face longer delays. Persistence pays off: follow up with your GP if needed, and organisations like Tourettes Action can offer advice on advocating for timely care or finding specialists experienced in tics.

Why a Diagnosis Matters—and Common Delays

Many people in the UK experience a delay between first noticing tics and getting a formal diagnosis—on average around three years, though it can be longer for milder cases. Symptoms are sometimes dismissed as habits, "growing pains," or behavioural issues, or mistaken for allergies/throat problems early on.

Getting a clear diagnosis often brings a sense of relief for families—it explains what's been happening, reduces worry about unknown causes, and validates experiences. More importantly, it opens doors to tailored support:

• Adjustments at school (like extra time in exams or a quiet space during flare-ups).

• Access to therapies, such as behavioural interventions that help manage tics.

• Guidance on co-occurring conditions (like ADHD or anxiety), which are common and can sometimes need addressing first.

• Practical help from charities, support groups, or local services.

Even if tics are mild and not needing treatment right away, a diagnosis empowers you with knowledge and connects you to communities where others share similar journeys.

Living with Tourette Syndrome: Daily Life and Management

There's no cure for Tourette syndrome, but the good news is that most people manage it very well and lead full, active lives—especially since symptoms often become milder over time for many. If you're reading this because tics are affecting you or your child, it's completely understandable to feel uncertain about the future, but with the right approaches, the impact on daily life can be much smaller than you might expect. The main aim isn't to get rid of every tic (that's rarely possible), but to support overall quality of life, build confidence, and reduce any distress or interference.

Many individuals with Tourette's find that simple lifestyle adjustments and understanding their own patterns make a big difference, often without needing formal treatment. For others, targeted therapies or support can help when tics or related challenges feel overwhelming.

Everyday Strategies for Managing Tics

A lot of people with Tourette's discover practical ways to handle tics through trial and observation, and these can become second nature over time. Tics naturally come and go, but certain habits can help keep them calmer on tougher days.

• Managing stress and building calm routines: Stress, anxiety, and excitement are common triggers that can make tics more noticeable or frequent, while relaxation often helps them settle. Establishing regular daily routines, prioritising good sleep (aiming for consistent bedtimes), and incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness apps, or gentle yoga can lower overall tension. Many find that physical exercise—such as walking, swimming, or team sports—not only reduces stress but also provides a healthy outlet for energy, sometimes leading to fewer tics during and after activity.

• Spotting and navigating triggers: Fatigue, boredom, certain foods or drinks (like caffeine), or specific situations (such as crowded places or deadlines) can worsen tics for some people. Keeping a simple diary of when tics flare up helps identify personal triggers, allowing you to plan ahead—for example, building in short breaks during busy days or choosing quieter activities when tired. Avoiding known triggers where possible isn't about restricting life, but about making choices that support smoother days.

• Engaging in absorbing activities: Tics often quieten down when someone is deeply focused on something enjoyable, like playing music, reading, gaming, drawing, or crafts. This "flow" state can provide natural relief, and building these hobbies into daily life not only helps with tics but also boosts mood and self-esteem. For children, play-based activities or sports can have the same effect, turning potential challenges into strengths.

Explaining tics in a straightforward way to close family and friends early on fosters understanding and reduces any awkwardness. Many parents find that open conversations at home create a supportive environment where a child feels safe to tic without worry.

Support at School and Work

School or work can sometimes highlight tics more, especially if they're causing distraction, discomfort, or unwanted attention. In the UK, legal protections ensure that reasonable adjustments can be made to level the playing field.

At School

Tourette's isn't a learning disability, but tics (or co-occurring conditions like ADHD) can affect concentration, handwriting, or participation. Schools have a duty to support pupils with special educational needs.

• Accessing support: Start by talking to the school's Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO). They can put in place SEN Support, which might include simple adjustments tailored to the child. If more help is needed, you can request an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)—a legal document outlining specific support, reviewed regularly.

• Practical adjustments that help: Allowing short breaks or access to a quiet space when tics build up prevents escalation and reduces fatigue from suppression. Ignoring minor tics in class avoids drawing attention, while providing extra time for exams or written work accommodates any motor challenges. Sensitive education for classmates (using age-appropriate resources) builds empathy and reduces teasing.

• Long-term benefits: These steps not only help with tics but also support emotional wellbeing, helping children thrive academically and socially. Organisations like Tourettes Action offer free resources and training for schools to get this right.

At Work

Adults with Tourette's are protected under the Equality Act 2010, which recognises it as a disability if it has a substantial, long-term impact on daily activities. Employers must make reasonable adjustments.

• Common helpful changes: Flexible working hours to manage fatigue, a quieter workspace to reduce sensory triggers, or allowances for breaks during high-stress tasks. Open discussions with managers about needs (perhaps using a "Tourette's passport" document) can lead to practical solutions without stigma.

• Many find that once adjustments are in place, they excel in roles that play to their strengths, such as creativity or focus in absorbing tasks.

Therapies and Treatments

If tics are causing significant distress, pain, social difficulties, or interference with life, evidence-based options can make a real difference. Treatment is always personalised, and many start with non-medication approaches.

• Behavioural therapies as first choice: Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT), which includes Habit Reversal Training (HRT), is widely recommended in guidelines and often the preferred starting point. It teaches awareness of premonitory urges, relaxation techniques, and "competing responses" (gentle actions to interrupt tics). Delivered over 8–12 sessions (in person or sometimes online), studies show it reduces tic severity for many, with benefits lasting long-term—comparable to medication but without side effects. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is another option for some.

• Medications when needed: For more severe tics or when behavioural therapy isn't enough, specialists might prescribe medicines like alpha-agonists (e.g., clonidine or guanfacine) or certain antipsychotics (e.g., aripiprazole). These are started at low doses, monitored closely for side effects, and only used if benefits outweigh risks. Medication is more common when comorbidities are prominent.

• Addressing co-occurring conditions: Up to 85% of people with Tourette's have conditions like ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or sleep issues, which can sometimes affect life more than tics. Treating these—through therapy, medication, or strategies—often leads to overall improvement, including milder tics. For example, managing ADHD focus challenges or OCD thoughts can reduce stress and indirectly calm tics.

Support from psychologists, occupational therapists, or specialist tic clinics can also help with sensory sensitivities, organisation, or emotional coping. Emerging options, like guided online programmes, are being assessed by NICE for wider availability.

Needs change over time, so regular check-ins with a specialist (via your GP referral) ensure the approach stays right for you. With understanding and the right support, most people with Tourette's find ways to minimise challenges and focus on what matters—relationships, achievements, and enjoying life. If things feel tough right now, reaching out for professional guidance is a positive step forward.

Help and Further Resources

Connecting with others who truly understand Tourette syndrome can make a big difference—whether it’s sharing experiences, getting practical advice, or simply feeling less alone. Many people find that joining a support group or reaching out to a charity reduces isolation and builds confidence.

In the UK, there are several reliable organisations and resources for information, emotional support, and community connections.

Key UK Organisations and Resources

• Tourettes Action: The leading UK charity dedicated to Tourette syndrome. They offer free services for children, adults, families, schools, and professionals, including a confidential helpline and email support (Monday to Friday), online live-chat for quick queries, webinars and training, downloadable resources, and a calendar of events. They run both in-person and online support groups for different ages and needs, such as groups for parents, adults with TS, or male caregivers. Many people find these groups invaluable for sharing tips, building friendships, and feeling supported.

• NHS information on Tourette syndrome: The NHS website provides clear, evidence-based guidance on symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and management strategies. It’s a reliable starting point for medical information, including when to see a GP and what to expect from NHS services.

• Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) resources: GOSH offers detailed online information sheets written for families. They cover what TS is, common comorbidities like OCD or ADHD, anger management strategies, psychological treatments, and tips for explaining tics to others. They also provide downloadable explanation cards for children to use at school or in social situations and guidance for teachers on supporting pupils with TS.

Local and regional support groups are also available through Tourettes Action and independent networks. Online options make it easier to connect if travel is difficult or you prefer joining from home.

Medical ID Cards

Many people with Tourette syndrome find it useful to carry a medical ID card with key information in case of emergencies.

Reaching out for support is a positive step. These resources help you navigate life with Tourette’s more confidently, and connecting early often makes a noticeable difference. A quick call or email to Tourettes Action is a simple place to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answering the questions that come up most often can help clear up worries and give a clearer picture. Here are some common ones families and individuals ask about Tourette syndrome, with straightforward answers.

What causes tics in Tourette syndrome?

Tics arise from differences in how certain brain circuits work—these normally help control movements, impulses, and habits. Genetics play the biggest role, with the condition often running in families through a complex mix of many genes. Other factors, such as events during pregnancy or early development, can influence how symptoms show up but don’t cause Tourette’s on their own. This isn’t anyone’s fault and isn’t linked to parenting or upbringing.

Can children outgrow Tourette's?

Yes. Many children see symptoms improve significantly as they get older. Tics usually start in childhood, peak around ages 10 to 12, and then begin to ease during teenage years. By late adolescence or early adulthood, around three-quarters of individuals experience a noticeable reduction in tics, sometimes to the point where they are minimal or barely noticeable. A smaller number have tics that persist into adulthood, but most lead full lives with support and strategies.

Is swearing a common symptom?

No. Uncontrollable swearing, or coprolalia, affects only about 10% of people with Tourette's. Media portrayals exaggerate this symptom, which can create unnecessary stigma. Most tics are milder and everyday, such as eye blinking, head jerking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, sniffing, or grunting.

How does Tourette's affect school?

Tics themselves might cause distraction or fatigue, especially if a child is trying to suppress them, but most children do very well academically with the right support. Co-occurring conditions, like ADHD or anxiety, often have a bigger effect on learning than the tics alone. Schools can make reasonable adjustments—extra time in exams, short breaks, or a quiet space. Talking openly with the SENCO and educating teachers and classmates creates a supportive environment.

Are there effective treatments?

Yes. Several approaches help reduce the impact of tics and improve quality of life, though there’s no cure. Behavioural therapies, particularly Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) or Habit Reversal Training, are often first-line and work well for many. For more severe cases or if comorbidities are prominent, medications like alpha-agonists or certain antipsychotics can be prescribed carefully by specialists. Education, lifestyle adjustments, and family or school support are often sufficient for milder cases.

Does stress make it worse?

Yes. Stress, anxiety, excitement, fatigue, or boredom can temporarily increase tic frequency or intensity. Stress doesn’t cause Tourette’s itself—it triggers tics in someone already predisposed. Managing stress through routines, exercise, relaxation, and open communication helps keep tics calmer.

Can adults develop Tourette's?

It’s very rare for Tourette syndrome to begin in adulthood. Onset before age 18 is part of the diagnostic criteria. Adults diagnosed later usually had mild tics in childhood that went unnoticed. Sudden adult-onset tics are more likely caused by other conditions and should be assessed by a doctor.

Is Tourette's linked to other conditions?

Yes. Up to 85% of people with Tourette’s also have neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions, such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, learning difficulties, or sleep problems. These links are partly genetic. Addressing co-occurring conditions can improve overall wellbeing and sometimes reduce tics.

How can I support a child with Tourette's?

Focus on strengths, accept tics as part of who they are, and create a calm, understanding environment. Avoid drawing attention to tics or pressuring suppression. Educate family, friends, and teachers to respond patiently. Encourage hobbies that naturally quiet tics, maintain routines, and seek specialist advice if needed. Celebrating small wins and keeping communication open builds confidence.

Is Tourette's rare?

No. It affects around 1% of children in the UK—roughly one child per average-sized school class. Milder cases often go undiagnosed, so the true number may be higher. Tourette's is as common as autism or childhood epilepsy. Increased awareness helps more families get support.

Conclusion

Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that can bring challenges, but it doesn’t define a person or limit potential. For those affected or supporting a loved one, worries are natural, yet understanding the condition often brings reassurance and confidence.

Key points to remember: tics are involuntary and not anyone’s fault; they often become milder with age, with most people seeing significant improvement by late teens or adulthood; and management focuses on practical support, patience, and addressing related conditions like ADHD or OCD when present. Simple daily strategies, behavioural therapies, and sometimes medication can help ease symptoms, while education and acceptance reduce stigma.

Research shows positive outcomes for the majority, and early awareness plus occasional specialist check-ins support the best results. Experiences with Tourette’s are unique, so this guide provides general information only.

Ongoing questions or personalised guidance are normal. Speaking with a GP or specialist ensures advice fits individual circumstances. Trusted resources, such as Tourettes Action, provide updates as knowledge advances.

With understanding and support, people with Tourette’s go on to achieve their goals and lead full, rewarding lives. This information is accurate as of December 2025. Medical knowledge evolves, so always consult a healthcare professional for the latest advice.