"I Swear" & Tourette Syndrome - Learn More
With the US launch of “I Swear” – a critically-acclaimed film about Scottish activist John Davidson’s journey with Tourette Syndrome (TS) – audiences will see a deeply powerful representation of life with TS and the widespread stigma and misunderstanding that is still as present today as it was in the 80s and 90s when the film is set.
As the only national organization dedicated to serving people living with TS and other Tic Disorders, the Tourette Association of America is here to answer your questions, educate the public, and counter the misconceptions. To that end, we invite you to explore and share the resources we’ve gathered below.
First and foremost, if you or a loved one needs support: please contact the TAA directly at support@tourette.org or 718-224-2999.
Get the Facts about Tourette Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood and is characterized by involuntary movements and sounds called tics.
It’s important to remember that TS affects each person differently, including symptoms that vary in severity and change over time. Because of the highly individualized nature of TS and its associated co-occurring conditions, we discourage anyone from making generalizations about TS based on the experiences of one individual, including John Davidson’s experience as represented in “I Swear.”
When you’ve met one person with TS, you’ve only met one person with TS.
Support People with TS
The Tourette Association of America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that works every day to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to patients and families impacted by TS and other Tic Disorders.
Join us. Support our mission and help change lives by making a contribution today.
What is Tourette Syndrome?
Learn exactly what Tourette Syndrome is and what it isn’t, including information about symptoms, onset, prevalence and more.
Debunking Myths and Misconceptions
TS is a highly stigmatized condition and there is a lot of false information out there. Learn what is fact and what is fiction.
Accessing a Diagnosis
50% of people with TS live without a diagnosis. If you or someone you know has tics, please learn more about getting diagnosed.
Access Support
If you or someone you know experiences tics and needs support, please contact the TAA directly at:
- Email: support@tourette.org
- Phone: 718-224-2999
- Chat: Use the chat tool on this page
Get Personalized Support
The TAA is here to help you or someone you know access the support they need to navigate the challenges associated with TS and other Tic Disorders.
Resources and Guides
Explore the many science-backed guides and toolkits designed specifically for you or someone you know.
Find a Provider
Ready to meet with a medical professional who can answer your questions and eventually provide a diagnosis?
4 Ways to Support Someone with TS in a Movie Theater
Learn more about how to support theatergoers living with TS or another Tic Disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tourette Syndrome (TS)?
Tourette Syndrome is a genetic, neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children, adolescents, and adults. The condition is characterized by sudden, involuntary movements and/or sounds called tics. It is one of several Tic Disorders.
How many people have TS in the US?
It is estimated that 1 in 50 children in the US live with Tourette Syndrome or another Persistent Tic Disorder. 1 in 162 children live with Tourette Syndrome. It’s more common than most people realize – and about 50% of the time, Tourette Syndrome is undiagnosed.
Is there a cure for TS?
While there is no cure, with the right care and support, each person living with Tourette Syndrome can thrive.
Is TS covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
Yes, Tourette Syndrome is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
What kinds of symptoms are involved with TS?
Tourette Syndrome symptoms include motor and vocal tics, which can be simple or complex. Tics range from blinking or throat clearing to repeating phrases or movements involving multiple muscle groups.
Tourette Syndrome is often accompanied by co-occurring mental, behavioral, or developmental conditions. Approximately 83% of people living with Tourette Syndrome also live with at least one co-occurring condition, such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or autism.
Do tics always stay the same?
Every individual’s experience with Tourette Syndrome is unique. Tics and tic severity can change over time.
Does everyone living with TS experience swearing tics?
Coprolalia is a tic of an inappropriate word or phrase. Studies estimate that at least 10-15% of people living with Tourette Syndrome experience coprolalia. These tics are uncontrollable and do not reflect the individual’s values.
How should someone react to tics?
People living with TS have different preferences around how others interact, or don’t interact, with their tics. Please ask the individual personally impacted about their preferences when appropriate. When first meeting someone living with tics, it’s often best to ignore their tics and continue the interaction the same way you would with anyone else.
What does the TAA do?
Founded in 1972, the Tourette Association of America (TAA) is the only national organization dedicated to serving the Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorder community. The TAA works tirelessly to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to patients and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. The TAA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and directs a network of chapters, support groups, and Centers of Excellence across the country.
