Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations called tics. People with Tourette’s are absolutely capable of gaining and maintaining employment. However, the symptoms of Tourette’s can present some challenges in the workplace that need to be addressed.
What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
Tourette’s syndrome (TS) involves frequent tics that are sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic motor movements or vocalizations. The tics associated with TS tend to appear between the ages of 5 and 18 and the condition occurs more often in males than females.
Tics can be either simple or complex. Simple motor tics involve one muscle group like eye blinking or shoulder shrugging. Complex tics involve multiple muscle groups and appear more purposeful like jumping or twirling. Simple vocal/phonic tics include throat clearing, sniffing, or grunting noises. Complex vocal tics include repeating words or phrases.
Many people with TS experience additional neurobehavioral problems like ADHD and OCD. Tics wax and wane in severity and some people report being able to suppress them for limited periods of time. Stress and fatigue can worsen tics.
How Might Tourette’s Affect Work?
For many people with mild TS, symptoms may not pose substantial issues at work. Those with more severe tics that are disruptive may face some difficulties in certain work environments.
Here are some potential work-related challenges for people with Tourette’s syndrome:
- Physical tics like jumping or throwing may pose safety issues around machinery or delicate equipment
- Vocal tics like shouting may be disruptive in shared office spaces
- Coworkers may feel startled or annoyed by frequent tics
- Tics can interfere with job performance and focus
- Fatigue from suppressing tics may decrease stamina
- Tics may be mistaken for other concerning behaviors
Despite these challenges, the symptoms of TS alone do not preclude someone from gaining employment or excelling at their job. Workplace accommodations and advocacy can help minimize barriers.
Getting a Job with Tourette’s
Here are some tips for getting a job when you have Tourette’s syndrome:
- Research your rights: Laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act protect against discrimination in hiring and provide workplace protections.
- Consider if/when to disclose: You may wish to disclose your TS to hiring managers ahead of time or wait until after getting hired. Think through the pros and cons.
- Emphasize your assets: Focus your resume and interviews on highlighting your skills, accomplishments, education, and passion.
- Prepare explanations: Have concise explanations ready for questions about visible tics.
- Practice interviews: Rehearse your interview skills and responses. This can build confidence.
- Request accommodations: If needed, ask for reasonable accommodations like flexible breaks, alone workspaces, etc.
With perseverance and self-advocacy, many people with Tourette’s obtain rewarding and fulfilling employment across diverse occupations.
Workplace Accommodations
Some examples of workplace accommodations that may help employees with Tourette’s syndrome manage their symptoms:
| Accommodation | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flexible work hours/schedule | Helps manage fatigue from tics |
| Work from home options | Avoids distractions from tics |
| Noise cancelling headphones | Lessens auditory distractions |
| Private office space | Provides room for tics without disrupting others |
| Disability awareness training | Educates colleagues about TS |
Employers and employees can collaborate to find the right accommodations that allow people with Tourette’s to thrive at work.
Dealing with Discrimination
Unfortunately, people with Tourette’s may encounter stigma or discrimination during the hiring process and on the job. If you experience unfair treatment at work because of your TS, here are some steps to take:
- Document all incidents of discrimination in writing with specific dates, times, locations, people involved, and objective descriptions of what transpired.
- Reach out to supervisors, human resources, or disability/diversity coordinators at your workplace to report concerns and request solutions.
- Consult advocacy organizations like the Tourette Association of America for additional guidance on your rights and next actions.
- File a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if discrimination persists despite internal reports.
- Connect with a lawyer if you wish to take formal legal action against discriminatory practices.
Standing up to disability discrimination can be very challenging but is vital for progress. With persistence and the law on your side, you can work to eliminate TS misconceptions and unfair treatment in your workplace.
Finding the Right Job Fit
While people with Tourette’s can thrive in many careers, the following job attributes can be particularly helpful:
- Flexible work environments – Jobs with adaptable schedules, workspaces, and ability to work from home or telecommute.
- Independent work – Roles with minimal required interactions with colleagues or customers.
- Low-stress – Positions without fast-paced demands, strict productivity quotas, or high-stakes performance pressure.
- Supportive management – Supervisors who foster open communication, diversity, and inclusive work culture.
- Caring fields – Industries focused on directly helping people like healthcare, counseling, teaching, and social services.
Assessing your own abilities and needs and being strategic in your job search can help you secure rewarding work that complements your strengths.
Conclusion
Tourette’s syndrome presents challenges but certainly does not rule out meaningful employment. Being proactive about workplace accommodations, choosing jobs carefully, and exercising your rights can set you up for success. With perseverance and the right supports, the possibilities are endless for building a satisfying career with Tourette’s.