Every so often, tics and Tourette syndrome become part of a bigger public conversation—usually because something unexpected happens in a very public setting. Recently, during the BAFTA Awards, a moment involving coprolalic tics (involuntary use of obscene or socially inappropriate words or sounds) sparked a wave of online discussion about what tics are, how they show up in public, and how people should respond when they see them.

For many individuals and families who live with tics, moments like this can bring up mixed feelings. It can be validating to see tics acknowledged at all. At the same time, sudden public attention often leads to more stares, more questions, and more pressure to explain something that is deeply personal and often misunderstood.

My goal here isn’t to weigh in on any specific incident or person. It’s to offer practical, real-world support for navigating public situations with tics—and to share clear, grounded information about therapy options for tics that can help make daily life feel more manageable.

A Quick Reminder: What Tics Are (and Aren’t)

Tics are involuntary movements or sounds. Some people can suppress them briefly, but this usually takes a lot of effort, feels uncomfortable, and can lead to a “rebound” later—a sudden increase in tic frequency or intensity. Tics are not intentional.

Stress, excitement, fatigue, and being in public or feeling observed can all make tics more noticeable. This doesn’t mean someone is “losing control.” It means their nervous system is reacting to pressure.

Complex tics like coprolalia (involuntary vocalizations of socially inappropriate words) and copropraxia (involuntary obscene or inappropriate gestures) often target the moments when a person least wants to tic. In a quiet room, vocal tics may increase. During eye contact or social interaction, motor tics may increase. These tics often go completely against a person’s values and character.

This is important to say clearly: tics are neurologically driven and separate from the person. The person may feel embarrassed or distressed—but the tics themselves are not intentional.

What to Say When People Ask About Tics

You never owe anyone an explanation. Still, many people find it helpful to have a few simple responses ready so they don’t have to figure out what to say in the moment.

Here’s a simple formula you can borrow or adapt. Mix and match what fits you best.

Short and simple

• “I have a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements or sounds.”
  “Sometimes my brain tells me to make movements or sounds I can’t control.”
• “I have tics/twitches.”
  

Setting a boundary

• “I’m okay—you can just ignore it.”
• “It’s not a big deal. Ignoring it actually helps.”
• “It gets worse when people bring attention to it, so it’s best to ignore it.”
  

For parents supporting a child

• “My child has tics. They’re not doing this on purpose.”
• “My child has a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements or sounds. They’re okay—ignoring it helps. Thank you for understanding.”
• “We’re working with support to help them manage it.”
  

No matter which version you choose, it can be helpful to tell people how you want them to respond. Planned ignoring is often supportive. Attention—even well-meaning attention—can increase tics. Even noticing that someone is watching can make tics happen more.

Some days you may feel open to explaining. Other days, you may not. Both are okay. Some people choose to deflect entirely with something like, “It’s nothing,” or “Allergies.” While educating others can reduce stigma over time, you are not responsible for teaching everyone—especially on hard days.

Being in Public When Tics Feel Disruptive or Stressful

Public spaces can be hard—not because tics are a problem, but because noise, attention, and unpredictability add pressure. These strategies aren’t about making others more comfortable. They’re about supporting you:

• Carrying a medical or awareness card (if helpful). You can print or request one through the Tourette Association of America
• Letting staff, teachers, or supervisors know ahead of time when possible
• Choosing seats near an exit so you can step out easily
• Taking short breaks to help your nervous system reset
• Using calming or grounding strategies (breathing and relaxation can reduce tics temporarily)
• Giving yourself permission to leave when you need to
  

You don’t have to use all of these. Think of them as tools in a toolbox—you choose what fits your life.

Therapy Options for Tics (What Can Help)

There are evidence-based therapies that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of tics. The most well-researched approach is Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT).

CBIT focuses on:

• Increasing awareness of the early sensations (premonitory urges) that come before a tic
• Learning alternative responses that interrupt and stop the tic cycle
• Identifying environmental factors (like stress or fatigue) that make tics worse and making practical lifestyle adjustments
  

CBIT is not a cure, and it doesn’t eliminate tics for everyone. What it can do is help re-train the brain and reduce tic frequency and severity. For many children, teens, and adults, that alone can make daily life feel significantly more manageable.

It’s also important to know that CBIT isn’t the right fit for everyone. Motivation and practice matter. Supportive therapy, education, and practical coping strategies can still make a meaningful difference—even when CBIT isn’t available or isn’t the main focus.

One Last Thing

Public attention can sometimes make living with tics feel harder, not easier. My hope is that with more understanding, these moments can also become opportunities for compassion—both from others and toward yourself.

You don’t need to apologize for your tics. You don’t need to perform calm for anyone else’s comfort. You deserve support, respect, and care that fits your real life.

If you or your child experience tics and are curious about therapy support, you’re welcome here. I work one-on-one with clients and families, as well as in 8-week CBIT group programs. My approach is practical, collaborative, and focused on what actually feels doable in daily life. You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out—that’s part of what therapy is for.

Take the Next Step

If you’re trying to understand your child’s tics more clearly, structured tools can help.

• Tic Presentation Checklist – Identify whether tics are motor or vocal, simple or complex
• Tic Management Starter Guide– Essential foundations for understanding and managing your child’s tics

These tools can guide next steps and support informed decisions about care.

👉 Learn more about tic disorders, CBIT treatment, and parent education at Three23Therapy.com.

Peace and Blessings,

Emily, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist