Lewis Capaldi announces he needs a mental health break after Glastonbury as he suffers from Tourette’s Syndrome and Panic Attacks.

Lewis Capaldi announces he needs a mental health break after Glastonbury as he suffers from Tourette’s Syndrome and Panic Attacks.

Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi was visibly devastated as he struggled to complete his Saturday Glastonbury 2023 set on the Pyramid Stage.

Fans stepped in to help him out during his performance in as he struggled with not only his voice, but his Tourette’s symptoms. Lewis has also bravely stated previously that he suffers from panic attacks.

Tourette’s Syndrome and panic attacks are two distinct conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s life. They can intertwine and affect those who experience them. Understanding this relationship can help individuals cope better and seek appropriate support.

Tourette’s Syndrome

Tourette’s Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterised by involuntary movements and vocalisations known as tics. These tics can range from mild to severe, and their frequency and intensity vary from person to person. While the exact cause of Tourette’s is unknown, it is believed to involve both genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with Tourette’s often experience other co-occurring conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Panic Attacks

Panic attacks, on the other hand, are intense episodes of fear or anxiety that can occur suddenly and without warning. During a panic attack, individuals may experience symptoms like rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, trembling and a sense of impending doom. Panic attacks can be triggered by various factors, including stress, specific phobias or even without any apparent cause. They are commonly associated with panic disorder, but can also be seen in other anxiety disorders.

The Overlapping Nature

Research suggests a potential connection between Tourette’s Syndrome and panic attacks. While they are separate conditions, they can coexist in some individuals, causing significant challenges. Stress and anxiety often exacerbate tics in people with Tourette’s, and when this is heightened it can increase the likelihood of panic attacks. Similarly, the presence of tics can cause distress and embarrassment, leading to anxiety and the development of panic disorder.

Lewis Capaldi has revealed that his Tourette’s symptoms have been “getting quite bad” when he is performing on-stage due to his anxiety and nervousness when performing.

Both Tourette’s and panic attacks share some common underlying factors, such as abnormalities in certain brain regions, neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g., dopamine), and genetic predispositions. These shared factors may contribute to the overlap between the two conditions.

Additionally, individuals with Tourette’s may experience heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations, making them more prone to interpreting normal physiological changes as signs of impending panic.

Coping Strategies and Treatment:

Managing Tourette’s and panic attacks requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the specific needs of each condition. Here are some strategies that can help:

• Seeking professional help: Consulting with healthcare providers, such as neurologists, psychiatrists, or therapists, can provide valuable guidance and support tailored to individual circumstances.
• Medication: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage tics or anxiety symptoms. However, the use of medications should be carefully evaluated and monitored by medical professionals.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT techniques can help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, manage stress, and develop coping mechanisms for both Tourette’s and panic attacks.
• Relaxation techniques: Practices like deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation can be beneficial in reducing anxiety levels and promoting overall well-being.
• Support networks: Engaging with support groups or connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide a sense of community and emotional support.

While Tourette’s Syndrome and panic attacks are distinct conditions, their co-occurrence can present unique challenges for individuals, like Lewis Capaldi. By understanding the overlapping nature of these conditions and adopting appropriate coping strategies, individuals can improve their quality of life and effectively manage their symptoms. Seeking professional help and building a strong support network is hugely beneficial.

By the end of his Glastonbury set, Lewis suggested he would take time away from public life to recuperate. He said “I feel like I’ll be taking another wee break over the next couple of weeks. So you probably won’t see much of me for the rest of the year, maybe even longer.”

Here at ‘For Men To Talk’ we applaud Lewis for his honesty and wish him the best as he rests and seeks further professional support.