Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD)

 

What is Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD)?

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Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder is a condition where individuals experience real, physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical tests. These symptoms may include motor issues such as weakness or paralysis, sensory issues such as numbness or vision loss, and even non-epileptic seizures. While these symptoms may not have an identifiable structural cause, they are not "made up" or imagined—FNSD is a real condition that reflects a disturbance in how the brain and nervous system communicate with the body.

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People with FNSD often feel misunderstood or dismissed because their symptoms do not show up on traditional medical tests, which can lead to frustration and emotional distress. If you have been told that your symptoms are "all in your head," it is important to know that FNSD is a legitimate condition and that your symptoms are very real.

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Counseling for FNSD

Living with FNSD can be overwhelming, but there are ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-informed therapy and nervous system regulation approaches, can play a key role in helping to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. Therapy can help by:

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• Retraining the Nervous System: Therapy can help individuals with FNSD learn techniques to manage their symptoms by working with the brain and body to regulate the nervous system. This might include techniques such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, or somatic therapy, which focus on bringing balance back to the body's stress responses.

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• Processing Underlying Stress or Trauma: Many individuals with FNSD have experienced significant stress or trauma, which can contribute to or exacerbate their symptoms. Addressing these underlying issues can help relieve the burden on the nervous system, potentially leading to symptom reduction.

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• Improving Quality of Life: Therapy can teach you how to better cope with difficult days, helping you feel more in control of your symptoms. Understanding your condition and learning how to manage it can alleviate anxiety, reduce flare-ups, and improve your overall well-being.

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At Kind Works Counseling, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. FNSD is not a sign that you are "crazy" or imagining things—it is a real condition that affects how your nervous system functions. Our goal is to help you regain a sense of control over your body and life by providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Learn More

For more information on Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder, you can visit national organizations such as:

• FND Hope – A non-profit organization providing resources, education, and support for people living with FND.

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If you or a loved one is struggling with Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder, reach out today. There is hope, and together we can work toward healing.