Living well with Functional Neurological Disorder

Hughes, Jess and Eccles, Fiona and Curvis, Will (2023) Living well with Functional Neurological Disorder. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

Overview: This thesis explored concepts related to the experiences of living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). FND is known as a heterogeneous presentation of neurological symptoms that cannot be explained through known disease pathologies. Systematic Literature Review: The systematic literature review explored the experiences of health care professionals engaging individuals with functional seizures, in healthcare interactions. The review identified that healthcare professionals described engagement as successful when they; acknowledged the challenges and systemic difficulties with the condition; adapted for the individual, both being flexible in-service provision and in strategies used by the professional, and when the individual’s social network were consistent with their understanding and support. Empirical Paper: The empirical paper explored how individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder ‘lived well’ with the condition. The results were divided into four themes (1) Knowing and prioritising your values; (2) Having control of the narrative; (3) Navigating personal and therapeutic relationships and (4) Developing personal coping strategies. The results of this paper suggested that ‘living well’ with FND, was different for each individual based on their values, beliefs, and social environment. Critical Appraisal: The critical appraisal discusses further strengths and limitations of the research, reflections of the researcher and clinical implications.