Despite how far we have come in medicine and understanding of chronic diseases, many disorders are still not well understood, including disorders of the nervous system such as tourette syndrome (TS).

TS, also referred to as a tic disorder, is usually diagnosed in childhood and is often characterized by involuntary sounds and movements called tics. Tics can come on suddenly with head jerking, shaking, whistling, animal sounds, tongue sounds, and in some cases a throb.

Recently, celebrities such as Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi have spoken out about their experience with TS disorder, which has helped destigmatize the condition – but, they’re not alone.

While we still have a lot to learn about Tourette syndrome, the following celebrities are using their publicity to spread the word about the disorder and help people better understand the condition.

Billie Eilish

In her interview with David Letterman, the singer talked about her experience with Tourette syndrome. Eilish was diagnosed with the neurological disorder aged 11 and said people sometimes misunderstand her. As Billie explained, talking about TS made her realize she’s not alone.

Lewis Capaldi

As a musician with Tourette syndrome, Lewis Capaldi doesn’t let his condition stop him from playing and sharing his music. Since revealing his diagnosis, the singer has been keeping his fans updated on the developments of the disorder. While performing his latest song ‘Someone You Loved’ at a concert in Frankfurt, the musician had a crisis in his condition. As he struggled to cope, his fans helped him.

Seth Rogan

In a 2021 tweet, Emmy-nominated actor Seth Rogan shared that he has been managing a mild form of Tourette syndrome, which manifests as convulsions. He also took the time to dispel the myth that the syndrome is mostly characterized by “uncontrollable swearing” and educated the Twitterverse and Ted Cruz on what living with TS is really like.

Tim Howard

As a child, former Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard experienced the first symptoms of the syndrome between the ages of 9 and 10, he said during an episode of “UTD Podcast”. Despite TS, Howard found a place where he could be himself and thrive, in many sports, but especially football.

Lele Pons

The YouTube star has revealed that she has been living with Tourette syndrome her entire life. Pons, who has nearly 52 million followers on Instagram, said symptoms first appeared when she was 9 years old and couldn’t stop touching car handles.

Jamie Grace

Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and producer Jamie Grace filmed a Facebook Live video for the Tourette Association of America about the challenges she faces with Tourette syndrome. As she explains, during her livestream, “I have Tourette syndrome. I was diagnosed when I was 11 years old and it was definitely a challenge.” She continues to make music and show fans that TS doesn’t define her or stop her from living life the way she wants.

Dylan C. Brady

Country singer Dylan C. Brady was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at the age of 13. As a result of his diagnosis, Brady became a youth ambassador for the Tourette’s Association of America, performing his music and speaking at schools and camps about diversity.