Do I Have Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?

Understanding the Symptoms of FND – We're Here to Help You Make Sense of It All

Receiving a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) or suspecting that you might have it can feel overwhelming and confusing. You’re probably experiencing symptoms that don’t seem to make sense, making it difficult for you to explain to others exactly how you feel. We understand how challenging it can be, especially when symptoms vary so much from person to person. But you're not alone—we're here to guide you through this.

In this article, we’re going to explore the symptoms of FND together. We’ll talk through motor symptoms, sensory symptoms, episodes of altered awareness, and other symptoms that often come with FND. Our aim is to help you understand exactly what's happening, so you can feel more confident discussing your condition with friends, family, or healthcare professionals. Remember, we’re on this journey with you, helping to clear away confusion and offering a friendly hand to hold along the way. Let’s get started by looking at the symptoms in more detail.

Motor Symptoms of FND: Understanding Your Body’s Unexpected Movements

When we talk about motor symptoms in Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), we’re referring to the ways your body might move differently, feel weaker, or become harder to control. We know how unsettling these changes can be, especially when they happen suddenly or without an obvious reason. It can feel like your body isn't cooperating anymore, and this is both frustrating and worrying. But please remember—you’re not alone. We’re here to walk you through these symptoms step by step, so you know exactly what’s happening and feel less alone in this journey.

Feeling Weakness or Paralysis in Your Limbs

One of the most common motor symptoms of FND is experiencing sudden or gradual weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs. You might find yourself unable to lift your arm fully, walk as confidently as before, or grip everyday objects as firmly as you once did. For some, this can feel similar to having had a stroke, especially if it affects only one side of the body.

We understand that this symptom is alarming. Many people describe it as if their limb just doesn't respond to their brain's commands anymore. It’s important for you to know that this weakness is genuinely experienced—even though there isn’t a structural injury causing it. The pathways your brain usually relies on to communicate effectively with your muscles aren’t working as they typically would. It’s your body’s way of expressing underlying stress or emotional factors through physical means.

People with limb weakness often describe symptoms coming and going unpredictably. You might wake up feeling stronger one day and find yourself significantly weaker the next. While this can make planning difficult, understanding that fluctuations are normal in FND can help reduce your anxiety. Accepting this variability can also make it easier to communicate your needs to others, whether it’s family, friends, or medical professionals.

Movement Disorders: Coping with Tremors, Jerks, and Spasms

Movement disorders in FND include various symptoms such as tremors, jerky movements (known medically as myoclonus), and spasms or muscle tightening (dystonia). You might notice that parts of your body shake involuntarily, or you experience quick, jerking movements that you can’t control. Sometimes these can be subtle, like a gentle shaking of the hands when trying to hold a cup, or they might be more noticeable, causing embarrassment or discomfort in public situations.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, it’s completely understandable if you feel self-conscious or anxious. People often worry that others might notice these movements and judge them, adding another layer of stress. We encourage you to remember that your worth isn’t defined by these involuntary actions, and many people have similar experiences. Talking openly about your symptoms with people you trust can significantly reduce feelings of isolation.

Spasms or muscle tightening can sometimes be painful. Your muscles might contract and hold in uncomfortable positions, which can be tiring and frustrating. You might also find that certain triggers, like stress, tiredness, or strong emotions, can make these movements more frequent or severe. Recognising your triggers and learning simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle stretching, can often provide temporary relief.

Changes in Gait and Balance: Navigating the World Differently

When FND affects your gait—the way you walk—or your sense of balance, everyday activities can suddenly feel more complicated. You might find yourself feeling unsteady, walking awkwardly, or even losing balance without warning. It’s common for people to describe feeling as though their feet aren’t cooperating or that they’re walking on uneven ground even when surfaces are perfectly flat.

We understand how frustrating and limiting this can feel. It might become hard to trust your body, which can cause hesitation or anxiety about leaving the house, socialising, or even moving around your own home safely. But please know that you can regain confidence through small adjustments. For example, using mobility aids temporarily (such as a cane or walker) can provide reassurance and support when you need it most. There's no shame in using these aids—they exist precisely to help people navigate their daily lives more comfortably and safely.

It can also help to communicate clearly with family, friends, and coworkers about your condition. When people understand your symptoms, they can offer practical support, such as giving you more time to move around or helping you with challenging activities.

Coordination Difficulties: When Simple Tasks Feel Complicated

Coordination issues are another motor symptom of FND, making even simple tasks unexpectedly challenging. You might struggle with precise movements like writing, buttoning a shirt, or even picking up small objects. These tasks previously performed without thought can now become demanding or frustrating.

If this resonates with you, we want to assure you that you’re not clumsy or careless—your brain is temporarily struggling to send clear messages to your body. You may find that these coordination difficulties vary significantly from day to day, sometimes making it hard to predict your capabilities. Being patient with yourself is crucial during these times. Take things slowly, and allow extra time for activities. Giving yourself permission to adjust your expectations is both practical and compassionate.

Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking Clearly

Although swallowing and speaking issues are often grouped under sensory symptoms, they have strong motor components. You may experience trouble speaking clearly—your speech may sound slurred or whispered. Sometimes, swallowing becomes challenging, making eating and drinking stressful rather than enjoyable activities.

We recognise how frustrating and isolating speech and swallowing problems can be. You might avoid social situations, fearing embarrassment or the inability to communicate comfortably. However, opening up about these struggles can relieve emotional pressure. Many people find speech therapy particularly helpful, as therapists can teach effective strategies to manage these symptoms, allowing you to reclaim comfort in everyday interactions.

Supporting You Through Motor Symptoms: What You Can Do

Living with motor symptoms of FND can undoubtedly test your patience and resilience, but there’s plenty you can do to improve your situation:

• Gentle physical activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can enhance your body's coordination and strength.
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can reduce stress, which often triggers or exacerbates motor symptoms.
• Keeping a symptom diary can help identify triggers, making it easier to avoid or manage them.
• Finding supportive communities online or in person where you can share experiences and advice can make a significant difference.

In the next section, we’ll talk about sensory symptoms, exploring further ways FND may affect your daily experiences. We’re right here beside you, ready to guide you through.

Sensory Symptoms of FND: Helping You Understand Changes in Sensation

Sensory symptoms of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) can be particularly unsettling because they often involve changes in the way your body feels or perceives the world around you. If you're experiencing unusual sensations, altered vision, or difficulty speaking clearly, we understand how worrying and isolating it can feel. These symptoms might leave you feeling uncertain about your own body, wondering if others truly understand what you're going through. We want you to know that we do understand, and we’re here to help you navigate these confusing and frustrating sensations step by step.

Numbness or Altered Sensation: When Your Body Feels Different

Many people with FND describe unusual sensations such as numbness, tingling, pins and needles, or even feelings of extreme sensitivity. Sometimes these sensations might affect only one side of your body or specific limbs, or they could spread across wider areas, making day-to-day tasks feel challenging.

We understand these sensations can be unsettling or even frightening. You might notice that your sense of touch feels muted, or that parts of your body don't feel "right." Clothes that previously felt comfortable might now feel irritating or uncomfortable. Activities like typing, holding objects, or cooking might feel strange or awkward. It’s perfectly normal to feel frustrated or anxious about these sensations, especially if they fluctuate unpredictably.

Visual Disturbances: Coping When Your Vision Changes

Vision-related symptoms can be particularly distressing and disorientating. You might experience blurred vision, double vision, tunnel vision, or episodes of temporary vision loss. These symptoms often occur suddenly, making them especially worrying.

We know how distressing it can feel to suddenly lose clarity in your vision, especially when trying to carry out daily activities. It’s not uncommon to feel frightened or uncertain about what’s happening. These episodes might make you feel less confident about going out alone, driving, or doing tasks you previously managed with ease. It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated or even fearful during these moments.

Speech Difficulties: When Words Don’t Come Easily

Speech difficulties such as slurred speech, stuttering, or whispered speech (known medically as dysphonia) can make communication incredibly frustrating. You might find yourself struggling to form words clearly, speaking quietly, or unable to speak smoothly at all.

We know how isolating this can feel. It might become tempting to withdraw from conversations, avoid phone calls, or skip social interactions altogether. You might worry that others won’t understand or will become impatient. Please know that your frustration and feelings of isolation are entirely valid—and very common among people experiencing these symptoms.

Sensory Overload: When Everyday Sensations Feel Too Much

Many people with FND describe experiencing sensory overload—a feeling of being overwhelmed by sounds, lights, crowds, or even touch. What might previously have been a tolerable or even enjoyable environment can suddenly feel unbearable or exhausting.

We recognise how draining this can be. Places like supermarkets, crowded streets, or busy restaurants might suddenly feel too intense, making you want to avoid them entirely. You might feel more tired or stressed by everyday situations that others seem to cope with easily.

Hearing and Balance Changes: Coping with Dizziness or Ringing Ears

Some people with FND notice changes in their hearing or experience dizziness, vertigo, or ringing in their ears (tinnitus). These symptoms can impact your balance, making you feel unsteady or unsure on your feet.

We understand how unnerving it is to feel constantly off-balance or to cope with unwanted sounds like ringing or buzzing. It can leave you feeling vulnerable or anxious about simple activities like walking around your home or going outside. Understanding that these symptoms arise from your nervous system being temporarily "out of sync" rather than permanent inner-ear damage can provide relief.

Living with Sensory Symptoms: You're Not Alone, and We’re Here to Help

Living with sensory symptoms of FND can feel exhausting, confusing, and at times lonely. We know it's not easy, and we're certainly not here to tell you how you "should" feel or cope. Instead, we simply want you to know there are small, gentle things that might make your day-to-day life a little easier.

For example, some people find that gentle activities or quiet moments to themselves offer comfort when sensory symptoms feel overwhelming. Others feel a bit better when they gently introduce themselves to certain sensations or environments at their own pace, without pressure. Finding what works best for you personally is key, and there's no rush—your comfort matters above all.

Connecting with others who truly understand your experiences can be incredibly comforting, too. Whether it's family, close friends, or an online community of others with FND, being heard and genuinely understood can make an enormous difference to how supported you feel.

Remember, it’s okay to have days when you find things more challenging, and it’s also okay to share openly how you’re feeling. We’re here to remind you that you’re not alone, your feelings are valid, and we're always by your side as you navigate these symptoms.

Episodes of Altered Awareness: Making Sense of Non-Epileptic Seizures and Dissociation in FND

Experiencing episodes of altered awareness can be one of the most confusing and frightening aspects of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). These episodes often include non-epileptic seizures or dissociative states, leaving you feeling disconnected, uncertain, or scared about what's happening. We understand how unsettling it can be—not only for you, but also for those around you who may struggle to understand these episodes. Our aim is to help you gain clarity about what you're experiencing, so you feel less alone and better equipped to handle these challenging moments.

Understanding Non-Epileptic Seizures: When Your Body Takes Over

Non-epileptic seizures, also known as dissociative seizures, can look very much like epileptic seizures—but they differ because they aren’t caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, they occur due to disruptions in how your nervous system manages stress, emotions, or past trauma. These seizures are completely real, physically experienced episodes, even though they aren’t linked to epilepsy.

During an episode, you might experience uncontrolled shaking or jerking movements, your muscles might stiffen or go limp, or you might lose consciousness temporarily. Some people remain partly aware, unable to respond or communicate, while others may have no memory of the event afterward. This can be deeply unsettling, especially when it occurs for the first time, or happens unpredictably.

We understand how frustrating it is when others misunderstand these episodes, mistakenly thinking you can control or stop them if you tried harder. Please remember—these seizures aren’t within your voluntary control. Your body is responding in its own way to stress, emotions, or subconscious triggers, and your experience is valid and recognised.

Finding support in people who understand, whether family, healthcare professionals, or others living with FND, can help reduce the emotional burden. Knowing you're not alone in facing these seizures can ease feelings of isolation, helping you regain confidence and self-compassion.

Recognising Dissociation: Feeling Detached from Yourself or Your Surroundings

Dissociation is another common experience in FND, often described as feeling disconnected from your body, your thoughts, or the world around you. You might feel as though you're watching yourself from outside your own body or like you're living in a dream-like state. Sometimes it feels as if the world isn't quite real, or you might find yourself emotionally numb or detached from experiences you previously enjoyed.

We know dissociation can feel very unsettling and frightening. You might worry that you’re losing touch with reality, or feel embarrassed trying to explain these feelings to others. You might even begin to question yourself, wondering if these sensations are imagined or if you’re "going crazy." Please trust us when we say these feelings are very common and completely understandable reactions to stress, anxiety, or emotional challenges.

Dissociative episodes can last minutes, hours, or even longer, and can fluctuate depending on stress levels, fatigue, or emotional triggers. We understand how disorienting and isolating these episodes can be, particularly if they occur frequently. If this resonates with your experience, you may benefit from grounding techniques—simple methods such as gently focusing your attention on your senses, your breathing, or holding something familiar and comforting. These techniques won’t instantly fix everything, but they can provide reassurance, grounding you gently back into the present moment.

Understanding Triggers: Recognising Patterns in Your Episodes

One of the most helpful steps you can take is becoming familiar with your own personal triggers. Triggers vary greatly from one individual to another, but commonly include stress, emotional upset, fatigue, overstimulation, or reminders of past trauma or challenging experiences.

We encourage you to gently pay attention to how your body and mind respond to various situations. Keeping a simple diary can be useful here—not to pressure yourself into "solving" anything, but rather to offer yourself a clearer understanding of patterns or situations that may increase the likelihood of an episode. This insight can help you prepare, manage your stress levels, and feel more in control of your day-to-day experiences.

It’s okay if identifying triggers takes time or feels challenging at first. You're not expected to master this immediately—taking small, gentle steps can gradually help you feel more confident in managing your episodes.

Communicating with Others: Helping Those Around You Understand

Explaining non-epileptic seizures or dissociation to family, friends, and colleagues can feel difficult, especially when you're not fully sure yourself what's happening. Often, misunderstanding or lack of awareness from others can lead to feelings of isolation or embarrassment.

We appreciate how emotionally challenging this can be, especially if you’ve faced doubts or scepticism from others in the past. But clear, honest communication with your support network can significantly improve your emotional well-being and strengthen relationships. Letting people around you know what happens during an episode—and how they can help—can ease anxiety for everyone involved. You might ask them simply to stay calm, speak reassuringly, or ensure your safety without panic or fuss. Clear communication often reduces misunderstandings and helps everyone feel more secure.

After an Episode: Taking Gentle Care of Yourself

Following an episode, it’s completely natural to feel physically and emotionally drained. You might experience tiredness, confusion, muscle aches, or emotional sensitivity afterward. It's important to give yourself permission to rest and recover without guilt or judgment.

Gentle self-care after an episode can be incredibly supportive—whether it’s taking time to rest quietly, enjoying calming activities, or simply speaking to someone who understands and cares. Your emotional and physical recovery matters, and taking the time you need is not only beneficial but entirely justified.

Living Well with Episodes of Altered Awareness: Finding Gentle Ways Forward

We know how daunting and isolating episodes of altered awareness can feel, especially when they're unpredictable or misunderstood by others. But we also want to remind you that you're not alone—many people are experiencing exactly what you’re going through.

Finding support from those who understand your experiences can make a huge difference. Whether through online communities, local support groups, or talking openly with someone you trust, being heard can be a source of great comfort and strength.

It's also helpful to explore approaches that may ease the emotional and physical stress of your episodes. Practices such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or guided relaxation can help soothe your nervous system, making episodes feel more manageable over time. Small adjustments in your daily routine to reduce stress, improve rest, or gently manage emotional triggers can also contribute positively to your overall well-being.

We know every day with FND brings unique challenges. Some days will naturally be easier than others—and that’s okay. Your feelings are completely valid, and it's perfectly normal to need extra support sometimes. Remember, we're here by your side, ready to listen, understand, and support you through every step of this journey.

Less Talked-About Symptoms of FND: Understanding What Else You Might Experience

Alongside motor, sensory, and awareness symptoms, FND can also include other less obvious but equally significant challenges. These symptoms might be subtle or invisible to others, making them even more difficult to talk about or explain. You might find yourself struggling with chronic pain, fatigue, difficulties concentrating, changes in bladder or bowel function, or trouble sleeping. We understand how isolating it can feel when the people around you don’t fully appreciate what you're experiencing. That's why we’re here to help you explore these symptoms in detail, offering reassurance and support every step of the way.

Chronic Pain: When Your Body Aches Persistently

Chronic pain is often part of living with FND, appearing as persistent headaches, muscle pain, or widespread body aches. You might notice sharp or dull pains that seem to flare unpredictably. These sensations can significantly affect your everyday life, making ordinary tasks feel exhausting or difficult.

We know how frustrating and tiring constant pain can be, especially when others can't see or fully understand what you're experiencing. It’s completely understandable if you sometimes feel isolated or misunderstood. But your pain is very real and is genuinely felt by your body, even though it might not show up clearly in medical tests. Pain in FND is often linked to heightened nervous system sensitivity, meaning your body reacts more strongly or differently to sensations.

If chronic pain is something you’re facing, we encourage gentle, compassionate approaches. Some people find techniques like gentle stretching, warm baths, or relaxation methods help ease their discomfort. Remember to be patient with yourself—your pain is valid, and taking time to manage it gently is important.

Fatigue: Feeling More Than Just Tiredness

Fatigue is a common symptom with FND, but it often goes far beyond ordinary tiredness. You might wake up feeling unrefreshed, struggle to get through your daily activities, or find yourself constantly drained. Fatigue can feel relentless, leaving you frustrated when rest doesn't seem to help as much as you'd hope.

We understand that fatigue can make you feel overwhelmed or discouraged. It might sometimes feel like others underestimate how difficult it is to live with constant exhaustion, which can lead to feelings of isolation or even guilt. But it’s crucial to recognise your fatigue is real—it’s not a lack of motivation or effort.

Gentle approaches can sometimes ease the intensity. Taking regular short breaks, pacing yourself throughout the day, and listening closely to your body's needs can gradually make fatigue more manageable. You deserve patience and understanding, especially from yourself, as you navigate these challenging feelings day by day.

Cognitive Difficulties: Navigating Brain Fog and Forgetfulness

If you're experiencing cognitive difficulties, sometimes described as "brain fog," you're not alone. Many people with FND notice that their memory isn't as sharp as it once was, or they struggle to concentrate on everyday tasks. You might find it difficult to remember conversations, appointments, or even simple details, which can be stressful or frustrating.

We know how worrying these cognitive changes can feel. Perhaps you're embarrassed or worried about what others think if you forget names, appointments, or words mid-sentence. These difficulties arise because your brain and nervous system are managing multiple stresses, and concentration or memory can temporarily suffer as a result.

Simple tools like writing notes, using reminders, or openly discussing your challenges with loved ones can ease some of this pressure. Most people are understanding once they know you're having difficulties, making daily interactions more comfortable. Above all, remember you're not alone in feeling this way—cognitive struggles are a common and understandable part of life with FND.

Bladder and Bowel Changes: Quietly Managing Sensitive Issues

FND can also cause bladder and bowel changes such as increased urgency, frequency, or even occasional incontinence. These symptoms are challenging, often making people hesitant to discuss them openly. You might feel embarrassed, isolated, or fearful about social situations or outings.

We fully appreciate how difficult and sensitive these issues are. They can affect your confidence and make everyday outings feel complicated or anxiety-inducing. But it’s important to remember you're not alone in facing these symptoms—many others experience similar difficulties.

Seeking advice from medical professionals who understand FND can help you manage these symptoms more comfortably. Simple planning ahead, such as knowing where accessible toilets are located, can reduce anxiety. Opening up, even quietly, to someone you trust about these symptoms can help you feel less alone and more supported.

Sleep Disturbances: When Restful Sleep Seems Elusive

Difficulty sleeping is common with FND, whether it’s trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless nights. These sleep issues can leave you feeling drained, increasing your frustration and making other FND symptoms feel worse.

We know how tough it is when sleep doesn’t come easily. You might feel trapped in a cycle of tiredness, anxiety, and frustration. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed if restful sleep seems constantly out of reach.

Taking small, gentle steps—like creating a comfortable sleep environment, reducing screen time before bed, or having relaxing routines—can sometimes help. But remember, it's not your fault if sleep remains challenging. Be kind and patient with yourself, allowing your body the time and care it needs without placing additional pressure on yourself.

Living with These Subtle but Important Symptoms: Supporting Yourself Gently

We recognise that managing these additional symptoms of FND can sometimes feel draining, lonely, and even discouraging. It's completely understandable if you sometimes feel tired of explaining or justifying your experiences to others. We want you to know that your feelings are valid, and you have every right to feel supported, understood, and respected.

It's okay to have days when coping feels harder, and it's okay to share honestly how you're feeling. Connecting with others who understand can make all the difference, offering a sense of community and reassurance. You might find comfort in speaking openly with family, trusted friends, or people in support groups who genuinely get what you're going through.

Above all, please remember that you're not alone in experiencing these symptoms. Your journey with FND might be challenging, but you're never without support. We're right here with you, listening, understanding, and ready to help you feel less isolated as you navigate these subtle but significant challenges.

Moving Forward with FND: Taking the Next Step with Understanding and Support

We hope this article has helped you make sense of the symptoms you might be experiencing. Whether you're dealing with motor symptoms, sensory changes, episodes of altered awareness, or other subtle but significant challenges, we want you to feel reassured and less alone. Remember, understanding your symptoms can ease uncertainty, making it easier to communicate clearly with others—including family, friends, and healthcare professionals.

If you're reading this and suspect you might have Functional Neurological Disorder, it could be time to take the next step. Reaching out to your GP or a specialist for support is a positive and empowering move towards gaining clarity and comfort. We know it’s not always easy to talk about these symptoms, but getting a clear diagnosis can make a huge difference. It can open the door to treatments, therapies, and coping strategies tailored specifically to your needs.

And when you're ready—once you've received your diagnosis—we’re here to support you even further. Our medical ID cards can help you clearly communicate your condition, especially at times when explaining things might feel difficult or overwhelming. There's never any pressure, but knowing this extra support is available might give you additional peace of mind as you move forward.

Remember, recognising what you're facing is the first step towards feeling better. We'll always be here, ready to offer support and understanding whenever you need us.