Living with Tourette's: When Media Coverage Creates Setbacks
Twenty-year-old Lauren Davidson from Surrey would much prefer people to ask her about living with Tourette's syndrome rather than judge her condition. Diagnosed with a visibly aggressive form of Tourette's that includes Coprolalia—the involuntary utterance of obscene or socially inappropriate words—Lauren has experienced firsthand how media coverage can impact public perception of neurological conditions.
From Minor Tics to Vocal Coprolalia
Lauren's journey with Tourette's began with minor tics during childhood, but her symptoms evolved dramatically after a traumatic event when she was twelve years old. The psychological stressors transformed her condition from subtle physical movements to more visual and vocal expressions, eventually developing into Coprolalia. She remained undiagnosed for several years before receiving formal diagnoses for both Tourette's syndrome and autism at age seventeen.
"People don't realize that stress can bring out Tourette's symptoms," Lauren explained to MyLondon. "People who have the genetic predisposition that wasn't previously apparent—manifesting as something minor like a shiver—can develop the more psychological aspects. People with Tourette's cannot control it."
The Media's Impact on Public Understanding
Lauren pointed to recent news coverage involving John Davidson's outburst at the BAFTA Awards as an example of how media portrayal can hinder progress. She emphasized that such incidents are completely involuntary and that individuals with Tourette's often struggle with suppression attempts that can paradoxically worsen symptoms.
"Every time I feel like we're getting somewhere with people understanding Tourette's, something happens and it's portrayed in such a way—then it's like six steps back," Lauren expressed. "People ask 'why did he say it,' but he was probably trying so hard to suppress everything because he knows what his body's like and knows what could happen."
Therapeutic Progress and Professional Success
Through three years of integrated trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, Lauren has gained significant control over her condition. She now understands her triggers and has developed effective navigation strategies. Her professional achievements stand as testament to this progress—she recently won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards.
The judging panel noted: "With a very difficult and challenging background, she has used this to influence and inspire the people around her in a fantastic way. Demonstrating real initiative in her role, we couldn't help but feel humbled and emotional reading her profile. A well-deserved and worthy winner."
Creating Supportive Work Environments
Lauren joined JGA Group, a learning educator based in Harrow, which enabled her apprenticeship with British Airways in 2023 as a Content Creator. She has since established herself as a key member of their Communications and Engagement Team. Her approach to workplace disclosure has been instrumental to her success.
"When I came into British Airways, I told them my diagnosis straight away, told them my triggers," she shared. "I told them if they have questions, ask me. I was very lucky with my manager as well because they were so understanding and learned how to better aid me."
Advocating for Open Dialogue
Lauren remains committed to educating others about neurological conditions and promoting understanding. She encourages direct communication rather than assumptions or judgment, believing that open dialogue creates more inclusive environments.
"I hope in the future there's more understanding for people who physically can't control what they're saying or doing," Lauren stated. "If someone does tic around you, ask them. Anybody who asks me about my conditions, I'm so open about it. It's fine to question. I'd much rather be asked than judged."
The Apprentice of the Year award has profoundly impacted Lauren's self-perception. "This award has made such a difference in how I see myself," she reflected. "A group of judges who never met me, they read a document on who I am and they chose me above other great nominees; it means so much to me and I'm beyond grateful."
