About International FND Awareness Day
Every year on April 13th, advocates, patients, and medical professionals come together for International FND Awareness Day.
This day is dedicated to shining a light on Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition that is often misunderstood despite being one of the most common reasons for people to visit a neurologist. It is a day to promote education, foster community, and advocate for better care for those living with these invisible but impactful symptoms.
International FND Awareness Day
Functional Neurological Disorder is often described as a "software" problem of the brain rather than a "hardware" one. While the structure of the brain appears normal on scans like MRIs, the way the brain sends and receives signals is disrupted.
This can lead to a wide range of neurological symptoms, including tremors, seizures (often called non-epileptic seizures), paralysis, and cognitive issues. Because the symptoms can be diverse and fluctuate, raising awareness is crucial to ensure patients receive a timely and accurate diagnosis.
Did you know? FND is the second most common reason for a new outpatient neurology consultation, ranking just behind headache/migraine.
Did you know? The day was first established in 2013 by FND Hope, a global patient-led charity, to change the way the world views the disorder.
The goal of International FND Awareness Day is to break the stigma that has historically surrounded the condition. In the past, FND was often dismissed or misdiagnosed, leaving patients without the support they needed.
Today, with increased research and a more collaborative approach between neurology and psychology, there is much more hope for effective treatment and management.
International FND Awareness Day
If you are looking to get involved and show your support, there are several ways to participate in the observance:
Wear Orange and Blue: These are the official colors of FND awareness. Wearing a ribbon or a piece of clothing in these colors is a simple way to start a conversation.
Share Your Story: If you or a loved one are living with FND, sharing your experiences on social media using the hashtag #FNDAwarenessDay can help others feel less alone.
Educate Your Community: Many people—including some healthcare providers—are still unfamiliar with the latest research on FND. Sharing reputable resources can bridge the knowledge gap.
Donate to Research: Support organizations that fund clinical trials and provide resources for patients navigating their diagnosis.
By participating in International FND Awareness Day, we help move the needle toward a world where every person with FND is empowered with a diagnosis and has access to comprehensive, multidisciplinary care.
Let's make some noise and ensure that those living with FND are heard!
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