Play and FND

[Lady4]

When watching the video (Sensory Training Work with FND) that "Numma 100" shared, I sat there stribbling notes and this is one thing that was mentioned both during the video and is also stated on the pdf download as advice to clinicians (I signed up for updates as patient, technically parent though):

PLAY IS KEY FOR SENSORY AND

AUTONOMIC REGULATION

FND symptoms are often flared during a time of nervous system dysregulation.

The sensory and autonomic systems can be contributing factors. Using play and

incorporating things that bring people joy enhances neuroplasticity and regulates the nervous system.

People with FND need both!

[Numma100]

Thank you for breaking down into key points. Honestly I find it nearly impossible for me to be engaged in reading, watching, learning for more then ~5 minutes before I lose my focus. I had to watch in parts and only find key points when I was paying attention. This is one major downside of my symptoms and certainly one that has left me out of work since 2018.

I also cannot say how much I truly appreciate family, friends and loved ones who take there own time to summarize our issues as sometimes it's not possible for us to compile ourselves. A outside look and someone who see's our struggles I feel is the answer to MOST amount of help we can receive. I often look to my partner for distractions when I have issues, I would prefer a constant finger poke over a nice loving shoulder rub as it puts my mind in a place where FND becomes the background of my issues

[Lady4 in reply to Numma100]

I know how its difficult for many to concentrate for long periods of time, as I have read the posts. My son just gets annoyed with me, although my chosen moments aren't the best for some conversations/relaying suggestions etc.

Maybe your partner should grab you for a dance or karaoke 😊

[Brokendeer]

Hi found this interesting. Hardly get officially recognised basic FND symptoms as out of an individuals conscious control (although having Motor FND I have always maintained is the case).

But just to add a little on the subject of recreational play... as a hobby I design and play through boardgames, generally solo, although multiplayer games so occasionally with family.

This I have found to be great at training my body to hold concentration, help coordination and even takes me into a breathing pattern that is akin to meditation i.e immersive and quiet activity. Bonus, if the boardgame is left set up, then you can regulate times and duration of playing the game that suits yourself.

My latest boardgame, I have tried to make more of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy route by theming it as social situations that need solutions - in a light hearted fun way of course!

It is a shame that FND games are not on the market in the same way that supported Dementia and Stroke activities are available.

Look for the calm in the Storm!

[Lady4 in reply to Brokendeer]

Maybe you should design one and use a proportion of funds for FND hope and maybe they could promote it if they agreed it helped with CBT.

Just a thought 😉