Functional (dissociative) seizures

Functional seizures (also called dissociative seizures, non-epileptic attack disorder / NEAD, or PNES) are real, involuntary episodes. They can look like epileptic seizures but have a different mechanism. This sheet supports conversations in primary care and at home.

What are they?

These episodes come from a functional problem in how the brain processes signals — not from the same electrical discharge pattern that defines epileptic seizures. They are not “faking” and not under voluntary control in the moment.

Some people have both epilepsy and functional seizures. Never stop prescribed anti-seizure medication without medical advice. Your specialist team should clarify which episodes you have and what that means for you.

During an episode — for people nearby

Do

Stay calm; protect from injury
Cushion the head if needed; loosen tight clothing around the neck
Time the episode; note recovery and any injury
Speak calmly when it seems safe; reduce noise and crowd if possible
Call 999 if first episode, injury, breathing difficulty, water/bath, pregnancy, or you are unsure

Don’t

Do not put anything in the mouth
Do not restrain unless needed for immediate safety
Do not assume they can “snap out of it”
Do not film without consent (except for agreed clinical reasons)
Do not leave someone alone until fully recovered if they are confused

What helps between episodes

Understanding the diagnosis, reducing fear, protecting sleep, pacing busy days, and psychological or multi-disciplinary approaches when available. Tracking frequency, duration, triggers and recovery time helps clinic reviews.

Ask for a plain-English explanation of your diagnosis and safety plan
Agree when to use 999 / 111 vs manage a familiar pattern
SeizeControl (free via FND Connect) can help log episodes for appointments

Safety first

If symptoms are new, sudden, severe, stroke-like, a first seizure, chest pain, or very different from your usual pattern, call 999 or use NHS 111. Do not assume it is “just FND”.