If you or your child have been noticing sudden, repetitive movements or sounds – like blinking, throat clearing, or shoulder shrugging – you might be wondering what’s going on. These are called tics, and for some people, they’re part of a condition called Tourette Syndrome. Let’s break down what tics and Tourette’s are, and how a treatment called CBIT can help.
What are Tics?
Tics are involuntary, repetitive movements or sounds. They can be simple like blinking, sniffing, or grunting or complex like jumping, repeating words, or touching objects. Tics often start in childhood and can come and go over time. You might even notice that tics may increase with stress or excitement.
What is Tourette Syndrome?
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological condition where people have both motor tics (movements) and vocal tics (sounds) for at least a year. TS affects about 1 in 160 children and teens. It is important to know that TS is not caused by anything you or your child did, and it’s not contagious.
Living with Tics and Tourette
Having tics or TS can be frustrating, especially if people don’t understand what’s happening. Sometimes, tics can interfere with school, friendships, or self-confidence. Tics can even sometimes cause physical pain. But remember: tics don’t define you. Many people lead happy, successful lives.
What is CBIT and how can it help?
CBIT stands for Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics. It’s a specialized therapy that helps people manage their tics. CBIT doesn’t “cure” tics or TS, but it can make tics less frequent and less disruptive.
CBIT includes:
- Habit Reversal Training: Learning to recognize when a tic is about to happen and doing a competing response (a different movement or action) instead.
- Relaxation Techniques: Reducing stress can help lower tic frequency
- Awareness Training: Understanding what increases tics and how to handle those situations.
- Support: Involving family and teachers to create a supportive environment.
CBIT is proven to help many children, teens and adults. It’s typically done with a trained therapist over several weeks.
What Can Parents and Kids Do?
Learn together: The more you understand tics and TS, the less scary they seem
Be supportive: Tics are not intentional. Avoid teasing or punishing.
Talk to your doctor or a neurologist: If tics are bothering you or your child, ask about CBIT or other treatments
Connect with others: Support groups can help you feel less alone.
Final Thoughts
Tics and Tourette are part of some people’s lives, but with understanding and support, they don’t have to hold you back. CBIT is a proven way to help manage tics and feel more in control. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to InSight Psychology for further information.
Resources – Tourette Association of America
