Resources
Understanding FND.
A short, plain-language primer — written by someone who lives it, not a clinician. Always check anything serious with your own medical team.
1 in 6
neurology outpatients have a functional disorder
Real
symptoms — not imagined, not 'all in your head'
Treatable
with the right specialist team and time
What FND is.
Functional Neurological Disorder is a problem with how the brain sends and receives signals — the 'software', not the 'hardware'. The brain itself looks structurally normal on scans, yet symptoms are very real and can be disabling.
Common symptoms.
Weakness, tremor, walking difficulties, non-epileptic seizures, sensory changes, fatigue, cognitive fog, and speech changes. For some, FND also brings gastroparesis, dystonia, dysphasia, and severe sensory sensitivities that require careful desensitisation. Symptoms vary day to day and can be triggered by stress, illness or simply nothing identifiable at all.
What helps.
A clear diagnosis from a neurologist who knows FND. Specialist physiotherapy or occupational therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy where appropriate. Pacing, sleep, gentle movement, and a community who understands.
What doesn't help.
Being told it's 'just anxiety'. Pushing through until you collapse. Comparing your week-to-week. The internet at 2am. (I've done all of these — none of them are the answer.)
Further reading
Trusted places to learn more.
This page is shared from personal experience and is not medical advice. Please speak with a qualified clinician about your own care.