Petition For Removal of Outdated Names Associated With FND

As part of our mission to decrease the stigma attached to functional neurological disorder (FND) and take a step to create changes for the FND community, we are advocating for the removal of outdated names currently associated with FND, including the terms ‘conversion disorder’, ‘psychogenic nonepileptic seizures’ (PNES), ‘psychosomatic disorder’, and ‘pseudo-seizures’.   

Reasons for Removing Outdated Names & Why It's Important

Here are the definitions of these terms:

• Conversion disorder: proposes that unexplained physical symptoms are a result of unconscious conflicts. The term "conversion" signifies the replacement of a psychological issue with a physical symptom, highlighting the role of psychological triggers in causing these symptoms.

• psychogenic definition: originating in the mind or in mental or emotional conflict

• psychosomatic definition: of, relating to, concerned with, or involving both mind and body; of, relating to, involving, or concerned with bodily symptoms caused by mental or emotional disturbance

• psycho definition: of, relating to, or being a person who is mentally or emotionally unsound or unstable especially in a way that results in dangerous or violent behavior

• pseudo definition: being apparently rather than actually as stated​

The current outdated names for FND contribute to the misunderstanding and stigma associated with the condition. They can lead to misinterpretation, misdiagnosis, and inadequate treatment. The use of these terms perpetuates the misconception that FND is purely psychological, thus leading to dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers and the broader community. Recent research has continued to disprove the theory that FND is purely psychological, but these names continue to be used throughout the medical community. The misunderstanding and stigma makes it further difficult to access much needed resources, such as mobility aids, financial assistance, etc. 

Specific Actions and Steps To Take To Make Changes

• Collaborate with medical professionals, researchers, and advocacy groups specializing in FND to develop a consensus on updated terminology.

• Engage in dialogue with healthcare institutions and regulatory bodies to encourage the integration of updated terminology into clinical practice guidelines and diagnostic criteria.

• Initiate educational campaigns to raise awareness about the impact of stigmatizing language and the benefits of adopting more inclusive terminology.

• Require use of up-to-date materials for reference and curriculum.

• Only use the appropriate terminology, FND, in all future publications and curriculum.

By enacting these particular measures and procedures, we can eliminate the stigma and misconceptions surrounding FND, and substitute the antiquated terminology with more comprehensive and inclusive language. It is only when the perception of the condition as being a purely psychological condition is transformed that individuals affected by FND will receive the appropriate care and support they need and deserve.

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