International FND Awareness Day, observed every year on April 13, is dedicated to raising global awareness about Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)—a condition that affects the brain’s ability to send and receive signals properly, leading to real and often disabling symptoms. Despite being one of the most common neurological conditions, FND is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed entirely. This day aims to shine a light on the struggles of those living with FND, break the stigma, promote accurate diagnosis, and push for better research and support. It is a powerful reminder that being unseen doesn’t mean being unheard or alone.
What is FND?
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition that affects the functioning of the nervous system. It can cause a wide variety of symptoms similar to neurological diseases (such as stroke or epilepsy), but without structural damage to the brain.
Common Symptoms of FND:
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Seizure-like episodes (Non-epileptic seizures)
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Limb weakness or paralysis
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Gait problems (trouble walking)
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Speech difficulties
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Chronic pain or fatigue
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Functional tremors or involuntary movements
FND is not “in the mind”, but rather a real disorder at the intersection of neurology and psychiatry.
History of International FND Awareness Day
The first International FND Awareness Day was organized in 2013 by the non-profit organization FND Hope, founded by people living with the disorder. The goal was to create global awareness about a highly misunderstood condition that affects millions but often lacks public, medical, and governmental recognition.
Since then, April 13th has become a day of solidarity, advocacy, and education—where patients, families, healthcare professionals, and communities join forces to shine light on the struggles and strength of those with FND.
Why Is International FND Awareness Day Celebrated?
Despite being one of the most common conditions seen in neurology clinics, FND remains misdiagnosed, stigmatized, and under-researched.
Reasons for Celebrating:
| Reason | Impact |
| Raise Awareness | Educate public and professionals about FND |
| End Stigma | Show that FND is not “faked” or “imagined” |
| Support Patients | Offer emotional, medical, and community support |
| Push for Research | Encourage funding for better treatment and diagnosis |
| Empower Advocacy | Encourage patients to speak out about their experiences |
This day gives a voice to those often unheard and fosters a sense of community and understanding.
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Global Significance of FND Awareness
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FND affects men, women, and children of all ages and ethnic backgrounds.
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It’s more common than Multiple Sclerosis and Motor Neuron Disease, yet remains largely invisible in policy and funding.
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The diagnosis is real and treatable, but due to a lack of awareness, many patients suffer years of misdiagnosis or are told it’s “just anxiety.”
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Celebrating this day helps remove the shame and fear associated with the diagnosis.
Theme for International FND Awareness Day 2025
“Unseen, Misunderstood, But Not Alone”
The 2025 theme highlights three important truths:
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Unseen – FND symptoms are real, but often invisible to others.
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Misunderstood – Patients are frequently doubted or misjudged.
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Not Alone – The FND community is strong, growing, and supportive.
The theme calls for compassion, validation, and recognition—both from society and the medical world.
10 Heartfelt Quotes for FND Awareness
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“I may look fine, but my nervous system tells a different story.”
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“FND is real. My pain is real. My journey is real.”
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“We are not faking it. We are fighting it.”
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“Invisible illness doesn’t mean imaginary.”
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“You don’t need to understand it fully to offer kindness.”
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“Behind every symptom is a person hoping to be believed.”
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“FND may be misunderstood, but I am not alone in this.”
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“Hope is not just a word. It’s a lifeline.”
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“Every day with FND is a silent battle for control.”
- “Support doesn’t cure—but it heals the heart.”
Importance in Education & Advocacy
For Medical Students & Professionals:
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Learn to recognize FND symptoms early
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Avoid harmful mislabeling as “psychosomatic”
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Encourage interdisciplinary treatment (neurology, psychology, physiotherapy)
For Patients:
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Know that your condition is valid
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Seek support through communities like FND Hope
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Advocate for your needs and rights
For Educators:
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Include FND in neurology and mental health education
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Host awareness events on or around April 13
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Symptoms vs. Common Misunderstandings
| Actual Symptom (FND) | Common Misunderstanding |
| Non-epileptic seizures | “You’re faking a seizure” |
| Muscle weakness or paralysis | “You just need to push harder” |
| Involuntary movements | “You’re doing it for attention” |
| Chronic fatigue | “You’re just tired or lazy” |
| Speech issues | “You’re nervous or pretending” |
Treatment & Hope
While FND has no “one-size-fits-all” cure, multidisciplinary treatment often helps:
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Neurophysiotherapy
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Speech and Occupational Therapy
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Supportive counseling
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Education for families and workplaces
Conclusion
International FND Awareness Day is a vital reminder that invisible doesn’t mean imaginary, and neurological doesn’t always mean structural. By listening, learning, and advocating, we help rewrite the narrative for people living with FND.
Let April 13, 2025, be a day of empathy, education, and empowerment—for the millions silently battling this misunderstood disorder.