Dr. Amanda Cole, a 32-year-old assistant professor of sociolinguistics at Cambridge University, has spent her career carefully concealing her Tourette’s syndrome. Her condition, which causes involuntary movements and vocal outbursts, first emerged when she was 15 years old. For many years, she feared her diagnosis would prevent her from having a career or a family.
Motivated by recent public discussions surrounding the condition, Cole decided to speak openly about her life with Tourette’s and autism. She noted that while she previously felt shame, she now hopes to foster a society where people feel comfortable living with their tics. Despite the common misconception that the condition involves constant swearing, Cole explains that her own tics are typically unrelated phrases or names. She emphasizes that these incidents are simply neurological events beyond an individual’s control.
Data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency suggests that very few academics disclose developmental conditions, likely due to a fear of stigma. Cole, who often suppresses her tics in professional settings, describes the process as physically demanding and similar to holding back a sneeze. However, she has found that being honest with her students has led to positive interactions, as they have largely been supportive and unfazed by the revelation.
Reflecting on her life, Cole refuses to view her condition as a limitation. She believes that the hyperfocus often associated with her neurodivergence has actually contributed to her academic success. She hopes that sharing her story will provide comfort to younger people with Tourette’s, assuring them that they can lead fulfilling and productive lives.