Meet Paul Barrett (02:51)

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Michelanne Forster created a one man show for Barrett focusing on his Tourette's syndrome. Barrett, Analise, and Matthew describe how their respective tics manifest.

Meet Tanya Humphries (02:38)

Humphries was diagnosed 7-8 years ago. She describes how her tics manifest. Barrett says most people do not understand how embarrassing a tic is for the diagnosed person; the individual is conscious they are acting oddly but cannot control it.

Yelling Obscenities (02:45)

Coprolalia only manifests 10 percent of those diagnosed with Tourette's. Listen to Barrett perform a song. Coprolalia emerges in young children, peaks in puberty, and diminishes in frequency during when a person reaches their 20s.

Early Teenage Years (02:58)

Watch Barrett perform a scene from his one man show. Matthew explains how his tics make it difficult for him to focus on his school work. His parents barricade the house with mattresses every night to ensure Matthew does not hurt himself.

Above Average in Intelligence (03:05)

Most children with Tourette's are home-schooled to avoid self-esteem issues and being bullied. Diagnosed individuals explain the disease and how they experience a premonitory urge before a tic occurs.

Being Bullied (03:11)

Watch Barrett perform a scene from his one man show. Matthew describes being teased in primary school. Humphries used to get picked on until she decided she would not try to fit in.

Acting Aspirations (02:21)

Watch Barrett perform a scene from his one man show. He explains that acting is a calling not a career path.

Discovering Occupations (02:16)

Humphries hopes to study midwifery. Analise wants to teach kindergarten— Matthew is not sure what he wants to study. Barrett discovered a new tic during his first professional job as an actor.

Just Stop It (02:57)

Humphries recalls her grandfather suggesting she have a lobotomy. Barrett explains that people do not understand how embarrassing a tic is for the diagnosed person. Analise's mom sought help from mental health services; her daughter was diagnosed with Tourette's.

Do Not Laugh or Judge (02:18)

Individuals discuss how embarrassed they are by their tics— they cannot control themselves. Barrett just wants to be treated normally. Watch Barrett perform a song.

Credits: Guide to Tourette's—Against the Odds (00:42)

Credits: Guide to Tourette's—Against the Odds