Functional Neurological Disorder: Clinical Insights for Patients, Families, and Professionals

Functional Neurological Disorder: Clinical Insights for Patients, Families, and Professionals

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a real and often disabling condition that affects how the brain controls movement, sensation, speech, cognition, and awareness. Despite normal scans and tests, people with FND can experience symptoms such as weakness, tremor, seizures, speech difficulties, sensory changes, and cognitive problems. Too often, this leaves patients and families confused, frightened, and unsure where to turn. In Functional Neurological Disorder , consultant neurologist Dr Ioannis Mavroudis provides a clear, compassionate, and evidence-based guide to understanding this complex condition. Drawing on years of clinical experience, he explains how functional symptoms arise, why they are real and involuntary, and how they differ from neurological diseases caused by structural brain damage. Written for patients, families, carers, and non-specialist professionals , this book bridges the gap between neuroscience and lived experience. It explores common symptoms, diagnosis, and clinical signs, and offers a thoughtful discussion of treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery. Throughout the book, emphasis is placed on reducing stigma, improving understanding, and supporting confidence and independence. Rather than offering quick fixes or oversimplified explanations, this book provides reassurance, clarity, and practical insight. It recognises the emotional impact of living with FND and the challenges faced by those supporting someone with the condition, while highlighting that improvement and recovery are possible with the right understanding and care. Whether you are living with Functional Neurological Disorder, supporting a loved one, or working with people affected by FND, this book offers an informed, respectful, and hopeful perspective on a condition that is too often misunderstood.