Introduction to Tic Disorders
Understanding Tic Disorders: What They Are and How They Affect Children and Adolescents?
Tics in its diagnostic form are sudden, rapid motor and vocal tics that have been present for more than 12 months.
They are not always consistent they can come and go, be situational and increase with stress and also excitement. there is a physical sensation that occurs before the tic happens, the tic is a response to the sensation and is a relief.
They are always involuntary, but can be suggestable if you have a tic disorder in that you can unintentionally pick up other peoples tics temporarily.
Tics are common in childhood and usually improve over time, but can be disruptive.
Motor tics are eye blinking, eye rolling, nose or mouth movements, shoulder shrugs, arm tensing,
complex tics can be larger movements that use more muscles.
Phonic tics are fast meaningful sounds, complex vocal tics
There is a difference between having an occasional tic and having Tourette's syndrome, the diagnosis is down to the length of time a tic has been present. Around 1 in 100 schoolchildren are affected with tics which is around the same as ASD.
Traditional Approaches to Managing Tic Disorders
Medication
There are a few medications that reduce the severity and intensity of tics, these can reduce the speed of the firing of the tics or block the neurotransmitter to prevent the message getting through. As always there are side effects that come with medication and these will be discussed with your GP.
Behavioural therapy
This involves teaching people about the brain, how it works, what is happening that causes tics.
Habit reversal therapy may support the person to inhibit the tic response and postpone the tic until a time they feel more comfortable.
Hypnotherapy for Tics
Relaxation strategies such as progressive muscle relaxation and self hypnosis can decrease stress or excitement levels which are known to increase the frequency of tics, these can be used and practiced before and during social situations. Reframing using positive self talk and visualisation methods can be effective in helping the person learn not to focus on their tic and create a negative association which will increase stress and anxiety.
Breathing strategies work much like the above, calming the nervous system and as a distraction.
Do I need a diagnosis?
It depends, if you are looking for more support in education then some people find a diagnosis can support with accessing additional support. If you would like to consider medication an official diagnosis will be required. You may need a diagnosis to access CAMHS therapy but see your GP or self refer to discuss this.
You do not need an official diagnosis to access hypnotherapy with a private practitioner.
Some people do not like the label of Tourette's syndrome so prefer not to get a diagnosis.
How do I get hypnotherapy for tics?
You can work with a hypnotherapist who will use a combination of psychotherapy and hypnosis to help support you. The therapist will find out how you would like to manage the tics and together you will practice different techniques to relax and distract you.
Sessions can be carried out online or in person meaning you can choose the preferred way to work.
If you would like to discuss how hypnotherapy can support your child in managing tic disorder then get in touch with Emma at Focused Hypnotherapy for a free chat. Emma has experience working with children and adolescents with tics and neurodiversity and adapts sessions based on age, sensory profile and outcome goals.
Emma has a private practice where she offers hypnotherapy for tics in Stamford, Lincolnshire or can work online via Zoom.
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