Tourette's syndrome : finding answers and getting help

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder usually diagnosed in childhood. It is characterized by tics: physical jerks and involuntary vocalizations. Some people with Tourette's also have other brain-based disorders, particularly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Tourette's syndrome can be a minor challenge or a truly devastating disability. People with Tourette's often experience anxiety, embarrassment, sometimes even harassment. Their symptoms can prevent them from having a normal childhood, building good relationships, achieving their best in school, or finding menaingful employment. The effects of this disruption can be painful and lifelong.

The good news is that Tourette's is very treatable and sometimes subsides with age. With prompt, consistent intervention, most people with Tourette's can wrest back control of their lives.Tourette's Syndromehelps you:

• Secure an accurate and complete diagnosis
• Live with Tourette's in the family: using effective parenting techniques, building support systems
• Understand medical interventions
• Obtain appropriate medical care from an existing health plan
• Deal with Tourette's in the community and workplace
• Navigate the education system
• Find resources

Author Mitzi Waltz, an advocate for people with neurological challenges, has included the stories of dozens of people living with Tourette's and parents of children and teens with Tourette's.