What is Tourette Syndrome?
You have heard of it most people don’t really know what it is except for the common misconception that all people with the condition blurt out unusual sounds or offensive words.
Tourette (pronounced too-RET) syndrome is a neurological disorder which included repetitive physical movements or unwanted sounds (tics) that are difficult to control. Some people might blink their eyes or shrug their shoulders, it is different for every individual.
The Mayo Clinic describes it like this:
“Tics typically show up between ages 2 and 15, with the average being around 6 years of age. Males are about three to four times more likely than females to develop Tourette syndrome. Although there’s no cure for Tourette syndrome, treatments are available. Many people with Tourette syndrome don’t need treatment when symptoms aren’t troublesome. Tics often lessen or become controlled after the teen years.”
The Mayo Clinic
At the age of 7, with a good stable family life, a positive and friendly outlook and relatively good ability at school, something strange happened to me.
I began to exhibit peculiar actions like sudden head shaking and making noises including compulsive throat clearing. My behaviour was dismissed by the family doctor as a passing phase or an attention-seeking device.
As I grew as a teen with Tourette’s in the 1970’s, little was known or discussed about Tourette’s syndrome. No one knew what I had and I myself, had no idea why I made all kinds of odd noises and mimicry.
You can read my full story to learn more about coping with and thriving through Tourette Syndrome.
What is Your Story?
If my story is similar to yours, I would say that you will learn later why you went through so much. A person who avoids going a certain path cannot be a guide for others along that road. Because I have had to walk that path, I am a useful guide to others walking blindly and alone through that same journey.
I offer direction and comfort when times are more difficult and help you get back on the right path for you. With a mindset that we are building people more than careers, my clients are supported to create transformation on the outside as critical thinkers and self-directed learners.
What is your story and how can I help you reach your career goals? Remember that being different is your biggest asset and you don’t have to be like everyone else. If you need a career coach, drop me an email or private message today to get you on the right track.
As a neurodiverse public speaker and presenter, Dave Brebner specialises in using educational neuroscience to explore pathways for professionals and engage in inclusive discussions for diverse audiences. Living with Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety Disorders since an early age, he is married with six children and one grandchild. He recently added a Master of Educational Neuroscience to his qualifications to further deepen his understanding of the neurodiverse mind, including his qualifications in Trades & Training, Adult Education, Vocational and Workplace Training, and a Master of Education degree in Career Development. Dave is a professional member of the Career Development Association of Australia, and you can learn more about Dave’s work at www.davebrebner.com.