How Billie Eilish, Tim Howard and Dan Aykroyd cope with their tics as a result of Tourette’s syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome has once again been rightfully platformed after the sad situation involving Lewis Capaldi leaving the stage during his set at Glastonbury Festival 2023. Taking to social media shortly afterwards, the Scottish blue-eyed soul singer announced he would take a break from playing live as he learns to cope with his recent Tourette’s diagnosis.

Capaldi was diagnosed with Tourette's in September 2022 and talked about his experience growing up with symptoms in his documentary ‘How I'm Feeling Now,’ with his tics becoming more pronounced during his exhaustive UK tour, culminating with his set at Glastonbury Festival 2023 coming to a head. 

Support has been universal for Capaldi after his admission, with UK charity Tourettes Action praising his honest, frank admission he needed to take time away, with the charity’s CEO Emma McNally telling Metro that “Lewis has nothing to apologise for,” regarding the cancellation of his remaining tour dates.

Capaldi of course has been emboldened by the support that he has received in the fact of coping with Tourette’s, a neurological disorder characterised by involuntary movements and vocalisations known as tics, and can look towards other personalities and performers who also have learned how to deal with living with Tourette’s, either through advocacy work all the way through to sharing their ways of dealing with tics.

So should Lewis Capaldi need some advice or suggestions from the world of entertainment, who can he count on who have been vocal about their experiences with the neurological disorder?

How do other personalities cope with Tourette’s?

Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish has been open about her experience with Tourette's syndrome and has discussed how she copes with it. She has mentioned that music provides her with a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to express herself and find comfort. Eilish has also emphasised the importance of self-acceptance and embracing her unique qualities, including her tics, as part of who she is.

Tim Howard

The former Manchester United and Everton goalkeeper has always been open and honest about his experience with Tourette's syndrome and how he manages it. He has mentioned that playing soccer provides him with a focused outlet where his tics and symptoms are reduced. Howard has also emphasised the importance of self-discipline, mental preparation, and staying focused on the game. 

He has developed strategies to manage his tics, such as deep breathing and finding ways to redirect his energy and attention during matches. Additionally, Howard has been an advocate for raising awareness about Tourette's and promoting understanding and acceptance of the condition

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd, who has been diagnosed with mild Tourette's syndrome, has found various ways to cope with the condition. Aykroyd has mentioned that his tics tend to diminish when he is engaged in activities that require focus and concentration, such as acting or performing music.

In addition to staying occupied with his creative pursuits, Aykroyd has also found support from his family, friends, and fans. Having a strong support network has been valuable in helping him navigate the challenges associated with Tourette's. 

Michael Wolff

The American journalist and author known for his book "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," has mentioned that his tics tend to diminish when he is engaged in focused activities or when he is writing. 

The act of writing allows him to channel his energy and attention, which can help manage his tics. In interviews, he has also talked about how Tourette's has influenced his career, noting that it has made him more attentive and attuned to the world around him.