Are Tics Common in Adults with ADHD?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 7, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, ADHD tics can occur in adults, although they are more commonly associated with childhood. However, many individuals with ADHD experience tics or motor tics as part of their symptom profile. These involuntary movements or sounds can be linked to the impulsivity and hyperactivity that are characteristic of ADHD. Tics may also be associated with comorbidities such as Tourette syndrome, which often co-occurs with ADHD.

ADHD Tics and Impulsivity

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or vocalisations that are hard to control. For adults with ADHD, these tics may be related to impulsivity and the heightened neurological arousal that comes with the condition. People with ADHD might feel an urge to perform certain physical movements or make sounds without realising or being able to control them.

Motor Tics in ADHD

Motor tics are the most common type of tic seen in individuals with ADHD. These can include repetitive eye blinking, throat clearing, head jerking, or other involuntary movements. Although they can be brief, they may increase during moments of stress, anxiety, or frustration, which are common in adults with ADHD.

ADHD and Tourette Syndrome

While Tourette syndrome (a neurological disorder characterised by repetitive tics) is more commonly diagnosed in childhood, it is a comorbidity in some adults with ADHD. The two conditions share overlapping symptoms, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty with emotional regulation. When both ADHD and tics are present, it may make managing symptoms more complex.

Managing ADHD Tics

While ADHD tics are not always problematic, if they interfere with daily life or cause distress, treatment options are available. Addressing the underlying ADHD with medication or behavioural therapies can help reduce the frequency of tics. In some cases, therapies such as habit reversal training or cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals manage their tics more effectively.

For personalised advice on managing ADHD tics, visit providers like ADHD Certify for consultations tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD in adults.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.