Living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and the Benefits of Our Awareness Card

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition that disrupts the brain’s ability to send and receive signals properly. Unlike conditions caused by structural damage, such as a stroke or multiple sclerosis, FND is related to how the brain functions rather than its physical structure. Symptoms can be unpredictable, making everyday life challenging and often misunderstood by those who are unfamiliar with the disorder.

Our FND Awareness Card is designed to help individuals with FND communicate their condition more easily, especially in situations where symptoms arise suddenly. It is not a form of ID but rather a simple, single-sided card that raises awareness about FND.

A diagnosis of FND can feel overwhelming. Many people experience symptoms for months or even years before getting a proper diagnosis. Since FND does not show up on standard medical scans or tests, it is often misdiagnosed or dismissed as psychological. This can make it difficult for those with the condition to receive the right support.

Common symptoms include:

• Motor Issues: Weakness, tremors, muscle spasms, or even paralysis in some cases.
• Seizures (Functional Seizures): Episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but do not have the same electrical activity in the brain.
• Speech and Swallowing Difficulties: Some people experience slurred speech, a loss of speech, or problems swallowing.
• Sensory Changes: Numbness, tingling, or pain that cannot be explained by nerve damage.
• Cognitive Symptoms: Brain fog, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating.

These symptoms can change from day to day and may worsen with stress, fatigue, or illness. This unpredictability makes it difficult to explain the condition to others, especially in situations where immediate help or understanding is needed.

One of the hardest parts of having FND is dealing with the stigma surrounding the condition. Since symptoms are real but do not have a clear structural cause, people with FND are often met with doubt, even by healthcare professionals.

Emergency responders, security staff, or even members of the public may not recognize FND, leading to confusion in urgent situations. People experiencing functional seizures or paralysis in public may be treated as though they are having a psychological episode, a panic attack, or even faking symptoms. The lack of understanding can add stress, which in turn can make symptoms worse.

Workplaces, schools, and public spaces are not always equipped to support those with FND. The unpredictable nature of the disorder means that people may need accommodations one day and be fine the next. This inconsistency can lead to misunderstandings, with others assuming that the person is exaggerating or unreliable.

Why Carry an FND Awareness Card?

Our FND Awareness Card is designed to make these situations easier. Carrying the card means that you do not have to explain your condition repeatedly, especially in moments when speaking or thinking clearly is difficult. The card provides a clear, concise statement about your diagnosis, helping others understand that your symptoms are legitimate.

Here are some of the key benefits:

• Quick Explanation: If you experience a sudden flare-up in a public place, you can present the card to let people know what is happening.
• Emergency Situations: If emergency services are called, the card can help medical personnel understand your condition faster, reducing the risk of unnecessary interventions.
• Less Stress: Having a way to communicate your diagnosis without needing to explain everything can ease anxiety in stressful situations.
• Awareness and Education: The more people see FND Awareness Cards, the more recognition the condition will receive. Greater awareness can lead to better understanding and support for those living with FND.

FND is unpredictable, and every day can be different. Some days, symptoms may be mild or manageable, while other days they may be overwhelming. Having an FND Awareness Card on hand means that whether you are shopping, using public transport, at work, or attending an event, you have a simple way to communicate your condition.

This card is not a medical ID, and it is not personalized, but it serves as an important tool for raising awareness and making daily interactions easier. While it will not stop symptoms from occurring, it can make navigating public spaces and social situations less stressful.

Carry Confidence Wherever You Go: Order Your FND Awareness Card Today

If you or someone you know has FND, this card can make a real difference. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and provides immediate information about your condition without needing a long explanation. Having a way to quickly communicate your diagnosis can help reduce misunderstandings, improve interactions with others, and provide peace of mind.

Order your FND Awareness Card today and carry it with confidence wherever you go.