How do you deal with the stigma surrounding Tourettes Syndrome? (please read on !
Question:
How do you deal with the stigma surrounding Tourettes Syndrome? (please read on and help me to understand)?
I'm in my mid-30s, male, unmarried and live in a community that is quite small and I'm one of the older single guys within my community. Many of my friends are married now, and people in my community wonder why I am not married. They talk to each other (behind my back, which I got to know), saying that there is something wrong with that guy (meaning me). It's a silent practice in my community of not showing one's weakness, and in my community it is very easy to have your name "spoiled" if it known that there indeed is something wrong with you.
I have tried to hide the tics (I dont suffer from vocal tics) as much as possible, but as much as I feel that I am doing a good job of hiding it, I am very aware that people notice things about me and then it becomes bar talk among my friends, and then silence once I enter the bar.
In turn, I feel ashamed.
I live in a 3rd world country and there is no real professional help and I find myself having to deal with this on my own.
Answers:
I understand you, my friend. Usually, to dispel the mystery about Tourettes, I try to educate as many people as possible. Once the mystery is gone the stigma will follow. You have access to the Internet, so it can't be that bad where you are. You have available much information and help, and support groups over the Internet.
May I kindly point out that you have placed this question in the wrong category! Tourettes is not a mental illness. Your misconception about this disorder may be contributing to your self-doubt. Tourettes is Neurological, or to be more specific, Neurobiological. Think of it this way: Your software is fine (mental capabilities, ability to learn and function), but your hardware is wired incorrectly and that causes you to tic.
As far as friends and reputation, it's all in how you perceive it. For me personally, I have given my reputation to God to deal with. He is my shield, He is my fortress. He is my strong tower. I do not worry about what others think. It's not my problem.
Please do not feel ashamed. Tourettes is a condition you were born with and had no control over. It's your choices that you are responsible for.
Best wishes.