What Is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder is a condition that affects how the nervous system functions. In FND, the brain has difficulty sending and receiving signals correctly, even though the structure of the brain often appears normal on standard medical tests.

This can lead to real, involuntary neurological symptoms that may change in type or intensity over time.

FND is a neurological condition. It is not imagined, not deliberate, and not a psychiatric disorder.

In FND, the brain’s communication networks do not work as smoothly as they should. This can affect movement, sensation, attention, and body awareness.

Research suggests FND involves changes in how the brain processes and predicts information, rather than damage to brain tissue.

  • brain and body communication pathways  
  • motor and sensory networks 
  • attention and salience systems 
  • predictive processing and expectation 

These changes are functional, meaning they affect how the brain operates, not how it is built.

FND can look different from person to person. Symptoms may include one or several of the following.

  • weakness or paralysis 
  • tremors or abnormal movements 
  • difficulty walking or balance problems 
  • functional seizures 
  • changes in sensation such as numbness or tingling 
  • speech or communication difficulties 
  • cognitive challenges including attention or memory issues 
  • sudden or ongoing fatigue 
  • autonomic symptoms such as dizziness or heart rate changes 

Symptoms are real and can be disabling. They are not intentional and are not under a person’s conscious control.

FND is:

  • a disorder of nervous system functioning 
  • a recognized neurological diagnosis 
  • associated with real physical symptoms 
  • influenced by multiple biological and environmental factors 

FND is not:

  • imagined or fake 
  • deliberate or attention seeking 
  • a sign of weakness 
  • the same as a psychiatric illness 

Understanding this distinction helps reduce stigma and supports recovery.

FND is diagnosed by trained healthcare professionals using positive clinical signs and careful assessment. Diagnosis is based on what is observed during examination, not simply on normal scans or test results. A clear explanation of the diagnosis is often one of the most helpful steps in care.

There is no single treatment for FND. Support is usually tailored to each individual.

  • education and explanation 
  • physiotherapy focused on retraining movement 
  • occupational therapy for daily function 
  • psychological support focused on regulation and coping 
  • multidisciplinary rehabilitation when available 
  • community and peer support 

Many people experience meaningful improvement with the right combination of supports.

Living with FND can affect school, work, relationships, and identity. Feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood is common.

Supportive environments, clear communication, and connection with others can reduce isolation and build confidence.

Healing Horizons for FND provides non clinical, trauma informed community support that complements medical care.

Our programs are calm, predictable, and accessible for people of all ages living with FND and their caregivers.

We do not replace medical treatment. We work alongside healthcare and educational systems to add connection and understanding.

Moving Forward

If you or someone you care about has FND, support is available. Learning, connection, and appropriate care can help create a more stable and hopeful path forward. You are not alone.