Tourette's Syndrome presents unique challenges during coronavirus

Monique and Alex were both diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome when they were 11-years-old.

Stuck inside the past few weeks, the siblings have contended with the disruption to schedule which usually helps them control the neurological disorder.

Mother Rebecca Brackin said Alex has been stressed about contracting COVID-19 and his anxiety and depression - comorbid conditions of Tourette's - have worsened.

"He wasn't eating and he wasn't sleeping," she said. "It's been very difficult."

Mrs Brackin said Alex feels cheated of time with his Year 6 teacher and anxious she's the one supervising schooling.

She said Monique has had difficulty engaging with her specialists over telehealth and her obsessive compulsive disorder - also a comorbid illness - has worsened.

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Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia has reported coronavirus is exacerbating involuntary behaviours, including coughing, sniffing or throat clearing.

Psychiatrist, Shannon Morton said children who exhibit the swearing tic or socially taboo behaviours can feel compelled to perform them involuntarily, particularly when told not to do.

"During the pandemic, this includes public health messaging like not coughing into hands or on people, not touching people or objects in public, or not touching their faces," she said.

Around one in five children with Tourette syndrome also have Autism.

Marymead Autism Centre provides support to around 400 Canberra families with children on the spectrum.

Service Coordinator Adam King said the centre had seen a spike in calls this week as families adjusted to their changed schooling routines.

Mr King said many children with Autism found attending face-to-face classes stressful and had been relieved at not having to attend.

He said many parents now worried about how they would transition back to normal schooling when it resumed this term.

For other children the routine of classes was what helped them feel in control.

"It really impacts families in different ways," he said. "But it's been a tricky time for a lot of people."