An Australian diagnosed with one of the most severe cases of Tourette syndrome  says her racial tics have become worse in the aftermath of the BAFTAs backlash.

Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx slammed Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson for shouting a racial slur as a result of an uncontrollable tic at the awards ceremony.

Bianca Saez has endured years of confronting and, at times, heartbreaking encounters with strangers, prompting her to raise awareness about the neurological disorder.

“People have yelled at me,” Saez said. “And I’m like, ‘I’m sorry I have Tourette’s’, when I shouldn’t have to say that.

“But I feel like society has made people with Tourette’s feel like they have to apologise for something they can’t control.”

Tourette syndrome is a complex neurological condition, with patients experiencing  involuntary movements and vocalisations known as tics. While symptoms and severity vary, tic-related-disorders can cause people living with the condition to suffer social anxiety.

New research found half of children with tic-related disorders thought about ending their lives. By adulthood, 25 per cent reported attempting suicide.

Saez said public misunderstanding and avoidance further isolates those living with the condition.

“Another thing that really breaks my heart is when I’m standing somewhere and women pull their children away from me,” she said.

She believes these reactions unintentionally teach children to fear disability rather than understand it.

“You don’t need to over-explain Tourette’s,” she said.

 “You can simply say, ‘This lady has a disability and she can’t help it’.”

Watch more from 10 News+ at 10.com.au

Information about Tourette syndrome, including support and resources, can be found on the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia website.

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