September is typically associated with returning to school or work after a long summer break.
But, for many living with FND, it can often mean returning to a workplace or education setting where they face stigma as a result of their diagnosis.
For some, the discrimination means not returning at all.
At FND Hope we believe that everyone has a right to work and every child deserves the opportunity to learn.
Living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) can be challenging enough, without having to navigate the stigma associated with the condition – which can make diagnosis, management and treatment challenging.
The impact on individuals in the workplace and schools is particularly troubling. Discrimination has a profound effect on the quality of life – from learning and career prospects to social exclusion.
And yet, this is where we can have the most impact to stop the stigma by raising awareness and educating people about FND.
If you’re living with FND and have experienced stigma as a result. Please share your experience on social media, using the hashtag #StopTheFNDStigma
You could paint, record a video or use text to share how FND stigma has impacted you in your personal or professional life and/or experience with medical professionals – from diagnosis through to management, treatment and living with FND.
If you would prefer to share anonymously please email: fndhopeuk@fndhope.org
Share the Scrambled Signals booklet. View the book for free here.
If you or someone you know has been affected by FND stigma and needs to talk, there are support services that can help.
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a problem with the functioning of the nervous system and how the brain and body send and receive signals. Learn more.
Functional Neurological Disorder provides an umbrella term for a variety of symptoms. Read more.
The aim of FND treatment is to ‘retrain the brain’. Most experts advocate a multidisciplinary approach to FND treatment because of the variety of symptoms the disorder encompasses. Learn more.
Check out our FND Patient Booklet and Managing FND: Care Partners guides.
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