What are tics?

Tics are repeated movements or sounds that the person doing them can’t control. They can be physical movements (motor tics) or making sounds and saying things (verbal tics).

Motor tics can be small things like blinking more often, shrugging shoulders, head movements and wrinkling the nose.  They can also be quite big involving arm or leg movements.

Vocal tics can be things like sniffing more often or clearing the throat a lot. They can also be saying words and sentences.

 Who gets tics?

Many people can have tics at various stages in their lives. Some people have them for a short time and then they go and never come back. Some people get them because they are going through a tricky time and then they improve when their situation improves. Some people have them every day. No one really knows why some people have tics, but they can be more common if you have ADHD or OCD. 

What should I do if I notice other people with tics?

Nothing! Pointing out someone’s tic to them might make them feel self-conscious. Drawing attention to people’s tics can also make them worse. Just ignore it if someone has a tic and, very soon, you will start to notice it less and less.

What should I do if I think I have tics?

Talk to your adults at home or your teacher who can help you.