Ricky aged 28

Ricky, 28

When I First Noticed My Tics

I first noticed my tics in primary school, starting with constant eye tics. My teacher used to joke with me and ask, “Do you fancy me?” Luckily, we had a good sense of banter, which helped. I was diagnosed at 16 while I was still at school.

School was a mixed experience. Some people thought I was cool, but others looked at me like I was weird, which made me feel very uncomfortable. There were times when I did not want to go back. I never ate lunch in the dining hall and instead sat in the headteacher’s office.

My Biggest Challenge

I would say my toughest challenge has been my confidence. At one point, it was really low. I stayed in my room most of the time and hardly went out. The only place I really went was into the garden to play with the dogs.

Finding Support

When Covid hit, I came across Tics and joined their online coffee morning. They made me feel so welcome, and I loved it so much that I joined every week. After Covid restrictions lifted, Kim and Bev encouraged me to come along to the group in person. I did, and I loved that too.

That is also where I met Yas, who is amazing — she is like Google and can do everything.

Thanks to Tics, I got my confidence back and started getting out again, even using public transport.

Proudest Achievement

My proudest achievement was receiving the Tics award at the symposium. It was the best day ever.

Advice to My Younger Self

The advice I would give my younger self is: do what you have got to do, and do not hide yourself away, because it can really affect your mental health. It certainly affected mine.

Tics is a family, not just a charity.