NPC Registration No: 2024/319828/08
Help us show up, connect, and be seen
We are currently seeking support for our participation at the SACNA Biennial Conference, through monetary donations or sponsored items. Each contribution directly supports education, awareness, and compassionate care for people living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).
SACNA Biennial Conference 2026
ASSESSMENT AND BEYOND -
The Art and Science of Neuropsychology
Together, we can move beyond assessment and towards understanding the whole person. Support this work by completing the Google Form: https://forms.gle/pdkXcAp2QG8xhfBF6
What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition that affects how the brain and body send and receive nerve signals. It's often described as being like a traffic light (robot) that is out of sync. When these signals don't communicate properly, it can result in a wide range of physical and neurological symptoms, such as seizures, movement difficulties, limb weakness, and changes in sensation (sensitive to light and sound). FND is also referred to as a brain-network disorder.
Most people living with FND experience a cluster of symptoms rather than just one. These may include seizures, limb weakness, tremors, chronic pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and sound. These clusters are referred to as subtypes. Research has identified the following main subtypes of Functional Neurological Disorder:
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Functional Movement Disorders
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Functional Seizures (also known as PNES)
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Functional Cognitive Disorders
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Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD)
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Sensory Symptoms
While these subtypes help explain how FND can present, they don't define a person's experience. Symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), headaches, and migraines are commonly associated with FND. These are not classified as the main subtypes, but they often occur alongside them. It's also important to note that symptoms can appear suddenly and can change in severity over a short period of time. People living with FND can experience symptoms very differently from one person to another, and even from moment to moment. It may overlap in ways that are not always predictable. This is one of the reasons FND is such a complex condition. There is no structural damage to the brain (no physical injury to brain tissue/structures). Instead, FND involves a problem with how the brain and body communicate. Signals between the brain and body may misfire or become disrupted, which temporarily affect a person's ability to walk, talk, or function as usual, before symptoms may ease or return to a more "normal" state.
We don't yet know exactly what causes Functional Neurological Disorder. Research does show, however, that certain risk factors may play a role in how symptoms develop or appear. These can include:
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Physical injuries, such as car accidents
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Traumatic or stressful life events
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Difficult experiences during childhood
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Invasive medical procedures
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Severe infections, especially viral illnesses with high fevers
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Other medical conditions
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Having a family member with a neurological condition
How FND Is Supported:
The Biopsychosocial Approach
Because Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) affects both the brain and the body, support works best when the whole person is considered. This is known as the biopsychosocial model.
This approach recognises that symptoms may be influenced by a combination of biological (brain & body function, pain, fatigue), psychological (thoughts, emotions, stress, coping), and social factors (relationships, life pressures, and support systems).
Using this model allows doctors, therapists, and carers work together to provide balanced, compassionate care. Support may include medical treatment, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological support, education about FND, support groups, and practical adjustments to daily life.
This approach recognises the close connection between the brain and body, supporting recovery and improved functioning.
How the brain is involved in FND
In FND, brain networks involved in movement, pain processing, emotional regulation, and the sense of control over actions (self-agency) may not work together smoothly. These areas are not damaged, but their communication can become disrupted, affecting how the brain and body function together. FND symptoms are real, valid, are not imagined or “all in your head”.
Supporting someone living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is an act of deep kindness. From our FND community, thank you. We see the love it takes to stand beside someone when their days are hard, their symptoms unpredictable, and their pain invisible to others.
The most meaningful way to support someone with FND is through understanding and patience. Listen with an open heart, believe what they’re going through, and gently learn more about the condition so they never feel alone in it.
FND Research Papers
Costs of adult functional neurological disorders at a tertiary hospital in central South Africa
Life after being diagnosed with PNES
A practical review of functional neurological disorder (FND) for the general physician
Diagnosis and management of functional neurological disorder
FND - Disability
Share Your Expertise With Our Community
We invite healthcare professionals to contribute to our support group meetings by presenting on topics related to Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Your expertise can help our members gain clarity, confidence, and practical tools for managing FND.
If you're interested in participating, we would love to hear from you.