Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations called tics. People with Tourette syndrome often experience uncontrollable twitching, blinking, grimacing, head jerking, sniffing, throat clearing, barking, shouting and other vocal tics. These tics can range from mild to severe and tend to wax and wane in severity over time. Tourette syndrome is more common in males than females and symptoms usually begin between the ages of 5-10 years old.
As Christians, how should we respond when encountering someone with Tourette syndrome? Here are some biblical principles to keep in mind:
1. Have compassion
We are called as Christians to have compassion for those suffering from afflictions and disabilities. Jesus himself had “compassion for them and healed their sick” (Matthew 14:14). When we encounter someone with Tourette syndrome, we need to see past the outward tics and view them with Christ-like compassion. Their condition is not their identity. We should be slow to judge and quick to extend grace, patience and understanding.
2. Treat them with dignity
Every human being is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect (Genesis 1:27). The tics associated with Tourette syndrome can sometimes be embarrassing or draw unwelcome attention, but we must still treat those with the condition with the honor they deserve as image bearers of God. Do not mock, tease or belittle them. Avoid staring or making comments about their tics. Treat them as you would want to be treated (Matthew 7:12).
3. Focus on the person, not the condition
When engaging with someone who has Tourette syndrome, we need to focus on the person, not just the condition. Take time to get to know them, their personality, their interests, their dreams. Tourette syndrome does not define them. We all have our own weaknesses and struggles – some are just more visible than others. But we all long to be known and accepted for who we are beyond our imperfections. Make an effort to see the whole person in front of you.
4. Offer support and encouragement
Living with Tourette syndrome can be challenging both physically and emotionally. The constant struggle to control one’s own body and speech can be draining. Providing words of encouragement, sending cards, spending time together and offering practical support can help lift their spirits. We are called to “carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Think of specific ways you can be an emotional or practical support to someone with Tourette’s in your life.
5. Educate yourself and others
There are many misconceptions about Tourette syndrome. Educating yourself about the realities of this condition can help you respond in a more understanding and compassionate way. You can then help educate others in your sphere of influence – your church, workplace, school or family. Accurate information combats assumptions and promotes empathy. But be careful not to overload the person with questions about their condition.
6. Be patient and forgiving
Tics can sometimes result in awkward situations or even injury to oneself or others. The vocal tics associated with Tourette syndrome may include socially unacceptable words or phrases being unexpectedly uttered aloud. As Christians, we are called to be patient, forgiving and gracious to others, just as Christ has been patient, forgiving and gracious toward us (Ephesians 4:32). If a tic results in disruption or offense, be quick to forgive.
7. Pray for them
We serve a God who is able to bring healing and comfort even in the midst of affliction. As believers, we can turn to God in prayer and intercede on behalf of those with Tourette syndrome, asking God to lessen their symptoms, grant them patience and resilience, and overwhelm them with His peace and joy. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
8. Remember their value is not based on their disability
Every human being has intrinsic worth because we are made in God’s image. People are so much more than any disability or condition they face. Tourette syndrome does not determine someone’s value, worth or dignity. As Christians, we can remind them and ourselves that our identity is found in Christ alone. “You are precious and honored in my sight” (Isaiah 43:4).
9. Set an example of Christlike love
As followers of Jesus, we are called to walk in love just as Christ loved us (Ephesians 5:1-2). Demonstrating the patient, kind, compassionate love of Christ sets an example for others in how to respond to those with Tourette syndrome. Choose to reflect Jesus by accepting, honoring and embracing those around you despite differences or disabilities.
10. Recognize Tourette syndrome is complex
Tourette syndrome manifests itself differently in each individual. Tics can range from mild to severe. Some with Tourette’s also struggle with associated conditions like ADHD, OCD and anxiety disorders that compound the challenges of this syndrome. It is a complex condition that warrants compassion. We should avoid assumptions and oversimplifications.
In summary, some key ways Christians can respond to those with Tourette syndrome in a Christlike way are: Show compassion, focus on the person not just their condition, offer support and encouragement, educate themselves and others, extend forgiveness and patience when needed, pray for them regularly, remember their immeasurable worth in God’s eyes, and strive to demonstrate God’s perfect love toward them in how we act, serve and accept them as valued members of the body of Christ.
11. Welcome them into the church community
Churches should be sure to welcome those with Tourette syndrome and make accommodations to serve them well. This may include seating them in an area of the worship space that is less distracting for their tics or providing transcripts of sermons if they are not able to listen attentively throughout the message. The church body should be educated about Tourette’s so they can show grace and understanding toward vocal or motor tics during worship services. Small groups should also be welcoming and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to their condition.
12. Advocate for them
There are times when those with Tourette syndrome face misunderstanding, discrimination, bullying, or lack of accommodations at school, work or in public settings. As Christians, we can follow Jesus’ model of advocating for the marginalized and serve as their ally and defender in situations where they are wrongly judged or treated unfairly due to their disability. We can help give them voice andmobilize change where needed.
13. Don’t limit God’s power
While Tourette syndrome has no known medical cure, we should avoid placing limits on God’s ability to work in their lives or even bring healing if He chooses. Scripture tells us that with God all things are possible (Luke 1:37). God is able to “do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). He cares deeply for those who are suffering. We can pray in faith, believing God for breakthroughs big or small.
14. Point them to Christ
Helping those with Tourette syndrome find their identity and worth in Christ is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. Remind them that God knows and loves them deeply as His child. Point them to Scripture that reveals God’s care and compassion for the marginalized. Share testimonies of God’s goodness and power at work in other’s lives. Ultimate hope is found in relationship with Jesus, not in being delivered from a condition or circumstance.
15. Extend grace and model Christlike virtue
Relating to those with Tourette requires spiritual virtues like patience, kindness, forgiveness, humility and compassion. As followers of Jesus, we have access to His transforming grace which enables us to walk in love and extend grace even when it’s difficult. Our own weakness should make us gracious toward the weaknesses of others. As we grow in godly virtues, we can reflect Christ even in trying situations.
Walking in genuine Christlike love and grace is perhaps the most important action we can take. May God give us wisdom, understanding and compassion as we interact with and minister to those with Tourette syndrome or any other difficulty.