FND Facts & Data

Functional Neurological Disorder is consistently described in peer-reviewed neurology literature as one of the most common conditions seen in outpatient neurology clinics.

FND is commonly seen in neurology services. Estimates vary depending on the setting and how cases are counted. Functional seizures are diagnosed in approximately 20–30% of adults referred to some epilepsy monitoring units.

FND occurs across the lifespan, including in children, adolescents, and adults, and across genders.

Although population prevalence estimates vary by region and methodology, research consistently indicates that FND represents a significant proportion of neurological consultations. It is a recognized diagnosis within modern neurological practice.

FND can affect multiple domains of nervous system functioning, including:

• Movement (weakness, tremor, gait differences)
• Sensation (numbness, altered perception)
• Speech and communication
• Seizure-like episodes (functional seizures)
• Cognition (attention, processing, memory)

People with FND may also experience fatigue, pain, sleep difficulties, dizziness, or other symptoms. Some of these may be related to FND, a separate condition, medication, or more than one factor, so new or concerning symptoms should be medically assessed.

Symptoms are real and involuntary. They are not consciously produced.

Severity and presentation may fluctuate over time.

FND is diagnosed by trained healthcare professionals using positive clinical signs observed during neurological examination.

Diagnosis is based on identifiable features, not simply the absence of abnormalities on scans or tests.

Clear explanation of the diagnosis is widely recognized as an important component of care and can improve patient understanding and engagement.

There is no single treatment pathway for FND. Care is typically individualized and may include:

• Education about the diagnosis
• Physiotherapy focused on movement retraining
• Occupational therapy supporting daily functioning
• Psychological support focused on regulation and coping
• Multidisciplinary rehabilitation when available

Some people improve with a clear explanation, appropriate treatment, and coordinated support. Others continue to experience symptoms or disability, even with care.

Outcomes vary from person to person and may be influenced by many factors, including access to informed care and support.

Despite its recognition in neurology, FND remains:

• Variably understood across professional sectors
• Subject to outdated misconceptions
• Associated with delayed diagnosis in some settings
• Impacted by fragmented service pathways

Improving professional education, coordinated care, and access to supportive community resources can reduce harm and improve stability.

1. Aybek S, Perez DL. “Diagnosis and Management of Functional Neurological Disorder.” BMJ. 2022;376:o64.
Read the BMJ article

2. Goleva SB, Lake AM, Torstenson ES, Haas KF, Davis LK. “Epidemiology of Functional Seizures Among Adults Treated at a University Hospital.” JAMA Network Open. 2020;3(12):e2027920.
Read the JAMA Network Open article

3. Stone J, Carson A, Duncan R, Roberts R, Warlow C, Hibberd C, et al. “Who Is Referred to Neurology Clinics? The Diagnoses Made in 3,781 New Patients.” Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery. 2010;112(9):747–751.
Read the article

4. Stone J, Burton C, Carson A. “Recognising and Explaining Functional Neurological Disorder.” BMJ. 2020;371:m3745.
Read the BMJ article

5. Lehn A, Petrie D, Palmer D, et al. “Managing Functional Neurological Disorder: Treatment Recommendations for Health Professionals in Australia.” BMJ Neurology Open. 2025;7:e000970.
Read the BMJ Neurology Open article