Bayside, NY – May 22, 2024: The Tourette Association of America (TAA) joins more than 1.4 million people in the US living with Tourette Syndrome (TS) or another Tic Disorder to raise awareness during Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month. The TS and Tic Disorder community regularly faces stigma, discrimination, and a widespread lack of understanding and acceptance. Each year, the community joins the TAA to combat these challenges by collectively educating the public by deploying awareness and advocacy campaigns, hosting events, and inspiring others through their daily interactions.
“Every day, members of our community face stigma and discrimination which forces them to miss out on the things that others take for granted, like going to class, having a job, or even feeling safe going about their daily lives,” says Amanda Talty, the TAA’s President & CEO. “While the TAA works all year to raise awareness and educate the public, Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month presents a unique opportunity for the 1.4 million Americans living with TS or another Tic Disorder to come together and shine a light on the realities of living with these conditions.”
The TAA works closely with a network of inspiring individuals across the country who are willing to speak to the press about their newsworthy efforts to raise awareness and advocate for the TS and Tic Disorder community. To connect with an individual in your area, please reach out to the TAA’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications, James Saracini, whose contact information can be found at the top of this document.
TOURETTE SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH EVENTS AND INITIATIVES
This Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month, the TAA encourages the public to participate in one of the many initiatives and events detailed below. The public can learn more about each of these opportunities on the TAA’s website at tourette.org/awareness
- #AuthenTICallyMe Social Media Campaign
The TAA kicked off Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month with a new social media campaign, titled #AuthenTICallyMe, which aims to show the world that the TS and Tic Disorder community is proud of who they are – tics and all – and that everyone should be free to choose how they define themselves. Individuals can learn more and discover how to participate, here. - TIC-CON24
The TAA invites the public to join members of the TS and Tic Disorder community at its annual national conference, TIC-CON24. This year’s conference – held in person every other year – takes place from May 31 to June 2 in Dallas, TX, and promises to be a weekend of learning, connecting, and fun! Individuals can learn more and register for TIC-CON24, here. - Virtual Awareness Walk, Run, or Ride
The TAA invites members of the public to raise awareness and funds wherever and however they exercise to support the TS and Tic Disorder community by participating in its Virtual Awareness Walk, Run, or Ride. Individuals can participate at their own pace or by joining several volunteer-held events around the country. Participation is easy and there are exciting rewards when participants sign up. Join the team and register for Team Tourette today! - National Awareness Ad Campaigns
The TAA is proud to kick off numerous digital advertising campaigns across the country to spread awareness and encourage individuals to find a diagnosis and access high-quality support. Be on the lookout all summer long for these awareness ads across the web and social media. - Celebrities & Influencers
The TAA is partnering with several celebrities and prominent influencers in the TS and Tic Disorder community to use their voices and substantial reach to raise awareness, inspire action, and secure broader support. Stay tuned to learn more!
ABOUT TOURETTE SYNDROME AND OTHER TIC DISORDERS
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children, adolescents, and adults. The condition is characterized by sudden, involuntary movements and/or sounds called tics. Tics can range from mild/inconsequential to moderate and severe and are disabling in some cases. TS is one type of Tic Disorder and tics are the primary symptom of a group of childhood-onset neurological conditions known collectively as Tic Disorders.
One out of 50 school-aged children in the US currently live with TS or another Persistent Tic Disorder. According to the Federal Department of Justice, Tourette Syndrome is a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Symptoms of TS tend to emerge between the ages of 5-7 and often increase in frequency and severity between the ages of 8-12. Symptoms of TS typically involve movements of the face, arms, limbs, or trunk, but can also involve involuntary vocalizations. These involuntary tics may also be complex, involving the entire body.
Individuals can learn more about Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders, find personalized support, and discover resources and tools by visiting the TAA’s website.
ABOUT THE TOURETTE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
The Tourette Association of America (TAA) is the only national organization dedicated to serving the TS and Tic Disorder community. The TAA works tirelessly to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to individuals and families impacted by TS and Tic Disorders. The organization directs an extensive network of 31 chapters, 83 support groups, and recognizes 18 Centers of Excellence in the US.
