Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is often misunderstood, frequently reduced to stereotypes such as swearing or highly visible tics. In reality, many people with Tourette’s go completely unnoticed in everyday life, including in professional workplaces
What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
Tourette’s is more common than many people realise, although estimates vary depending on how it is defined. Around 1% of the population is thought to meet the clinical criteria for Tourette’s syndrome. However, tic conditions more broadly are significantly more widespread. Research suggests that up to 10–20% of children experience tics at some point during development.
While new-onset tics in adulthood are less common, they do occur and are often linked to secondary factors such as trauma or other neurological conditions.
Overall, while diagnosed Tourette’s may affect around 1 in 100 people, the broader experience of tic-related conditions is far more common. It is also important to recognise that Tourette’s is likely underdiagnosed, particularly in adults and in individuals with milder symptoms who may never come into contact with specialist services.
Co-occurrence
Tourette’s rarely exists in isolation. Around 85% of people with Tourette’s have at least one co-occurring condition.
Common co-occurring conditions include:
- ADHD
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Autism
- Anxiety and depression
In many cases, these co-occurring conditions have a greater impact on daily life than the tics themselves. For example, difficulties with attention, organisation, or anxiety can significantly affect performance and well-being at work.
The Workplace Experience
In a work environment, Tourette’s can present unique and often invisible challenges:
- Suppressing tics throughout the day can be mentally and physically exhausting, often leading to a rebound in tic intensity once a person is in a more relaxed setting
- Stress, fatigue, or changes in routine may increase tic frequency or severity
- Co-occurring conditions, such as ADHD or OCD, can affect focus, planning, time management, and emotional regulation
- The effort to appear “typical” at work can contribute to burnout, anxiety, or reduced well-being over time
- Misunderstandings or a lack of awareness from colleagues may lead to stigma, discomfort, or misinterpretation of behaviours
Without understanding and appropriate support, individuals may struggle unnecessarily in roles they are otherwise highly capable of performing. With the right environment, however, employees with Tourette’s can thrive, bringing creativity, resilience, and strong problem-solving skills to their work.
The Role of Coaching
Workplace Strategy Coaching can be a powerful and practical support for individuals with Tourette’s, particularly where co-occurring conditions are present.
Our coaching can help with:
- Developing strategies for focus, organisation, and time management
- Managing stress and energy levels (which can directly affect tics)
- Building confidence around disclosure and self-advocacy
- Navigating workplace expectations and relationships
For individuals with co-occurring ADHD, coaching is especially beneficial in supporting executive functioning skills.
Reasonable Adjustments at Work
Employers can make a meaningful difference through simple, reasonable adjustments. These don’t need to be complex to be effective.
- Flexible working, such as adjustments to hours or location, can help individuals manage fatigue and reduce stress-related symptoms.
- Access to breaks and a quiet or private space can allow individuals to release tics without pressure or discomfort.
- Adjustments to workloads or deadlines can support individuals who experience attention, processing, or anxiety-related challenges.
- Increasing awareness and understanding of Tourette’s through training can help reduce stigma and create a more supportive team environment.
- The use of assistive tools, such as task-management systems, reminders, or structured workflows, can support organisation and focus.
- Encouraging open communication can help create a culture where individuals feel safe to discuss their needs and access appropriate support.
Final Thoughts
Tourette’s is often invisible, but the challenges it creates in the workplace are very real. With greater awareness, practical adjustments, and the right support, organisations can remove unnecessary barriers and enable individuals with Tourette’s to perform at their best.
