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Tourette’s syndrome causes mental health struggles and discrimination
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1 in 4 teens and adults with Tourette’s have attempted suicide at some point in their lives
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About 70% say they have experienced discrimination
FRIDAY, June 12, 2026 (NewsDay News) — Some may joke about Tourette syndrome, but it’s hell for those who have it, a new report says.
Overall, 1 in 4 teens and adults with Tourette’s or another tic disorder have attempted suicide, according to the Tourette Association of America. 2026 Impact Study Report.
Similarly, more than 70% of adults and nearly 70% of children say they have experienced discrimination because of their tics.
“The findings in the 2026 Impact Research Report are a call to action that show how much more we still need to do to ensure people living with Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders get the support they deserve.” Jan Langpresident and general director of the association, said in the press release.
“Stigma, discrimination, financial hardship and limited access to essential services are still a reality for many,” Lang said. “It’s time to create a system that gives people the care they need, the support they deserve and the opportunity to live the lives they want to live, free from stigma and discrimination.”
An incident at a British film awards show earlier this year showed just how challenging and devastating Tourette syndrome can be.
Tourette sufferer John Davidson, the subject of a recent British film, inadvertently uttered the n-word at the UK BAFTAs when black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lingo were presenting awards on stage.
Viewers were alerted to Davidson’s condition in advance and host Alan Cummings later asked for an understanding and apologized for any offense caused by the outburst. CNN reported.
In turn, Davidson left the ceremony after the incident.
She said in a statement: “I chose to leave the hall before the ceremony because I knew the trouble my tics would cause.”
Research by the Tourette Association has shown that this type of embarrassment is harmful among people with the disorder.
For example, 81% of teens felt that their tics negatively affected their school experience, and 55% said that Tourette’s syndrome or another tic disorder prevented them from achieving their potential.
Among adults, 40% said their tics prevented them from forming meaningful friendships or relationships; 36% said they experienced discrimination at work; 20% said they were discriminated against in job interviews; and 15% reported being unemployed because of their tics.
The survey found that about 45% of teens and 41% of adults said their tics were not well controlled by prescribed medication.
The study also found that many people with Tourette syndrome suffer from physical pain because of their tics, including 82% of adults and 69% of children.
It can also take a long time to get diagnosed – 84% of adults and 76% of children said it took more than a year after symptoms started to get a diagnosis.
“Stigma, discrimination, financial hardship and limited access to essential services are still a reality for many,” Lang said. “It’s time to create a system that gives people the care they need, the support they deserve and the opportunity to live the lives they want to live, free from stigma and discrimination.”
More information
Harvard Medical School has more information Tourette syndrome.
Sources: Tourette’s Association of America, news release, June 11, 2026; American Tourette Association 2026 Impact Study Results
What does this mean for you?
People with Tourette syndrome face many challenges because of their condition.
