Courtney Smith
Ironically, my tics first began while studying abnormal psychology in high school. They first began in a manner in which I would throw my arms to the right and make sounds that I affectionately referred to as a “pterodactyls trying to escape from my stomach.” Then I graduated from high school and like 50% of persons with a tic disorder, I developed OCD tendencies and a general anxiety disorder, right as I was going into college. I was coping with so many different things all at once. I was learning how to cope with what my life now is with metal disorders, trying different medications (one that made me clinically depressed, one that made me feel like I was on an elevator, and then another that made me addicted to crocheting), starting college, and working thirty hour weeks at a day care center. It was a recipe for disaster and unfortunately, my grades reflected as such.
Now, not even four years later, I have most things managed. I have a far better work situation. My tics are unmediated, but I have discovered my triggers and manage those. I know my abilities in school and have that aspect of my life in balance. I found that the key to most things is in fact balance. One of my outlets for keeping balance is hiking, and I have found that while hiking I do not tic. Not even once in the day. It could even be said that for once in my hectic life, I feel “normal,” whatever that really means.. I feel like there is nothing to worry about even while my brain is programed in a way that engages constant thinking, working, doing, ticing.
A troublesome transition in a “normal” person’s life, for me, was made way more difficult than I could have desired. However, I was raised to not let anything get the best of me and to persevere. It was hard, sure, but I know I am a better person; a more understanding person; a whole person; I am a fully functioning adult in society pursuing a higher education, and I just happen to have a Tic Disorder.