Tourettes Awareness Month

From May 15 to June 15, the Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA®)—the only national, voluntary health organization for people with Tourette Syndrome (TS)—joins the hundreds of thousands of families affected by TS to help raise awareness of this baffling disorder during National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month.

In 2005 Congress introduced a concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 430 and S. Con. Res 113)), which “recognizes the importance of early diagnosis, proper treatment and enhanced public awareness of TS and supporting the goals and ideals of a National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month.”

"Although media coverage has led thousands of children and adults to proper diagnosis of the condition,” said Judit Ungar, President, TSA, “many more are troubled by symptoms which remain undiagnosed.” The aim of TS Awareness Month, she added, is to encourage such people to seek medical attention.

Marked by involuntary body movements and vocal sounds called tics, it is estimated that some 200,000 Americans have the disorder, with millions more manifesting associated conditions. National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month, which was first established by TSA in 1997, provides an opportunity for the TSA, its chapters and others in the TS community to educate the public about this much misunderstood and misdiagnosed neurological condition.

Throughout the month, local TSA chapters across the country will work to raise awareness, increase education and reduce stigma associated with TS. One such event is Government Relations Awareness Week from May 30 to June 6. During this week, TSA chapters and families hold district meetings with elected officials and community leaders to raise local, state and federal elected officials' awareness of issues impacting families living with Tourette Syndrome.

Locally, many TSA Chapters will be hosting many events throughout the month, so be sure to contact your state’s TSA Chapter and Support Groups for details.

Founded in 1972, the TSA celebrates 39 years of service to the Tourette Syndrome community worldwide and has a three-pronged mission of education, research and service. TSA has 33 chapters and more than 150 support groups throughout the country. For more information on TS, call 1-888-4-TOURET or visit http://tsa-usa.org.