What are Tics?

“Tics” are involuntary sounds or movements that are sudden and short, and can be repetitive in nature. Tics tend to wax and wane and may worsen during times of stress, or when feeling excited or tired. Up to 18% of school-age children experience tics, however, the majority of children with tics do not go on to develop a tic disorder. Tics themselves are not harmful and do not necessarily interfere with a person’s functioning.

For children who do go on to develop a tic disorder, certain supports can be helpful to reduce the improve ways tics might impact functioning, such as physical discomfort or pain.

Chronic Tic Disorders

Someone with chronic tic disorder can experience either stereotyped, repetitive motor or vocal tics. Tics are classified as either simple or complex. Examples of motor tics include behaviours such as eye blinking, nose twitching, mouth movements, facial grimacing, muscle jerking, and shoulder shrugging. Vocal tics can include sounds, such as grunting, sniffing, throat clearing, squeaking, and repetitive words or phrases.

Tourette Syndrome

Tourette syndrome (TS) is diagnosed when a person has a combination of motor and vocal tics. TS is typically diagnosed during childhood and symptoms tend to wax and wane over time. TS can be well managed with the right support.

Not all children and adults with tics need CBIT. However, if a person is bothered by their tics, a form of Habit Reversal Training (HRT), known as Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT), is the recommended support.

Click here to find out more about CBIT, including who is a good candidate for CBIT.