Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) involves real, involuntary symptoms affecting movement, sensation, or awareness— such as weakness, tremors, non-epileptic events, gait changes, or sensory disturbances—without a structural neurological cause that fully explains them.

FND is a brain-based condition involving how the nervous system is functioning, not a sign of “faking” or “imagining” symptoms. Many people with FND feel invalidated or misunderstood before receiving an accurate diagnosis.

Why Seek an Evaluation?

An evaluation can help:

• Clarify the impact of FND on thinking, mood, and day-to-day functioning
• Differentiate FND from co-occurring conditions such as epilepsy, PTSD, or dissociative disorders
• Support rehabilitation planning, accommodations, and communication with providers

What an FND-Focused Evaluation Looks At

🧠 Cognitive Functioning

Attention, memory, processing speed, and executive functioning in the context of FND.

🎭 Mood, Stress, & Trauma History

Screening for anxiety, depression, trauma, and dissociation, without assuming they “explain everything.”

📚 Functional Impact

How FND symptoms affect independence, work/school, mobility, and daily routines.

📑 Collateral Information (with consent)

Input from neurologists, therapists, or rehabilitation providers, when available.

How Results Can Help

• Provide a clearer picture of cognitive and emotional functioning in FND
• Support referrals to FND-informed therapy and rehabilitation services
• Offer documentation for accommodations or disability when appropriate
• Help family and care teams understand FND as a legitimate, brain-based condition

Frequently Asked Questions

Does FND mean my symptoms are “all in my head”?

No. FND symptoms are real and involuntary. The condition involves how the brain and nervous system are functioning, not malingering or “making it up.”

Can FND co-occur with other neurological or psychiatric conditions?

Yes. Many people have FND alongside other conditions, and an evaluation can help clarify the full picture.

Trusted Resources for FND

National & Online Resources

• FND Hope – Education, advocacy, and support for people with FND and their families.
• Neurosymptoms.org – Clinician-created, patient-friendly information about functional neurological symptoms.

Florida-Based Supports & Community Resources

• Florida 2-1-1 – Helps connect you with local rehabilitation services, mental health providers, and support resources.

Crisis & Immediate Support

FND can be frightening and destabilizing. This page is not an emergency service, and Stillwaters cannot monitor messages in real time.

If there is concern for immediate safety or a medical emergency:

• Call 911 for urgent medical issues.
• For emotional crises or suicidality, call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org.
• Go to the nearest emergency room.

Moving Forward

FND can be confusing and exhausting, but you are not alone. A thoughtful, validating evaluation can support clearer communication with your care team and inform next steps in treatment and rehabilitation.

You can learn more about the types of evaluations we offer by visiting our Services page.

To explore whether an FND-focused evaluation may be helpful, contact us or book an intake appointment online.