Functional neurological disorder (FND) is not a mental illness, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay between psychological, social, and physical factors. FND is a condition in which patients experience physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by underlying neurological disease or injury.
While the symptoms of FND are real and can be debilitating, they are not caused by an underlying structural or neurological problem. Instead, FND is thought to arise from a dysfunction in the way that the brain processes sensory information or regulates movement.
However, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality traits may contribute to the development of FND. As a result, treatment for FND typically involves a multi-disciplinary approach that addresses both physical and psychological factors. This may include physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, stress reduction techniques, medication, and other approaches to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.