Coping with Functional Neurological Disorder

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a common but often misunderstood condition, leaving many individuals experiencing FND feeling frightened and isolated without the proper knowledge to support their personal wellbeing. Coping with Functional Neurological Disorder responds directly to this problem, written from the unique perspective of a clinical psychologist with lived experience of FND, to provide accessible explanations of symptoms and practical guidance for supporting wellbeing.

Structured around four key areas relating to FND, chapters offer hope, opportunities for connection and tools to support recovery and resilience. Topics explored include, but are not limited to:

• Explaining FND, including its causes, neural underpinnings and symptoms

• Practical ideas to support readers in making their condition more predictable and manageable

• Bringing together knowledge of FND and wellbeing strategies, allowing readers to learn to attune to their bodies and balance personal needs with the demands of daily life

• Widening the lens of FND to consider the role of friends, family and professional networks in supporting long-term recovery.

Readers will be encouraged to approach FND with compassion, building their understanding of their own unique experiences of FND, and creating a plan for symptom management and prevention of relapses.

An essential book for individuals with FND, and those who support them, this book offers hopeful yet reliable and psychologically informed advice for supporting physical and mental wellbeing. It will also be of interest to professionals working with individuals with FND, such as mental health and medical practitioners, seeking to better understand this condition.