What Is Conversion Disorder?
Conversion Disorder, now more commonly referred to as Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), is a condition where a person experiences neurological symptoms—such as paralysis, seizures, or loss of speech—without a detectable medical or neurological cause. These symptoms are real, distressing, and involuntary, but are believed to be linked to psychological stress or trauma rather than structural brain damage.
The term “conversion” refers to the idea that emotional or psychological stress is being “converted” into physical symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
Conversion Disorder presents a wide range of symptoms that mimic neurological conditions but have no clear biological basis. These can vary in severity and presentation.
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Sudden paralysis or weakness in limbs
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Loss of coordination or balance
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Non-epileptic seizures or convulsions
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Sudden loss of vision, hearing, or voice
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Numbness or abnormal sensations in the body
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Difficulty swallowing or the sensation of a lump in the throat (“globus sensation”)
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Unresponsiveness or episodes resembling fainting spells
These symptoms typically appear suddenly and are often linked to a recent stressor, traumatic event, or psychological conflict.
Causes and Risk Factors
Conversion Disorder is a mind-body condition that arises from a complex interplay of psychological and physiological factors:
Emotional abuse, neglect, loss, or significant stress can act as triggers.
Depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, or dissociative disorders are common comorbidities.
Unresolved trauma or early life stress increases susceptibility
Expectations, beliefs, or attention received due to illness can reinforce symptoms.
Individuals who are highly suggestible, perfectionistic, or avoidant may be more vulnerable.
It is essential to understand that individuals are not faking their symptoms; these are subconscious processes that require empathy and clinical care.
How It Affects Daily Life
Functional symptoms can significantly impact a person’s ability to function, often disrupting daily routines, work, and relationships.
Impact Areas:
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Physical Limitations: Reduced mobility, speech, or vision can affect independence.
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Emotional Distress: Confusion, frustration, and fear of not being believed.
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Social Isolation: Avoiding public settings or relationships due to symptoms.
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Social Isolation: Avoiding public settings or relationships due to symptoms.
Feelings of helplessness or stigmatization are common, especially when others doubt the reality of the symptoms.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Diagnosis of Conversion Disorder involves a thorough clinical assessment to rule out other neurological or medical conditions.
Steps Include:
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Neurological exams and imaging (MRI, EEG, etc.)
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Detailed psychiatric evaluation
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Observation of symptom patterns inconsistent with organic disease
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Identification of emotional stressors or psychological triggers
A key feature is that while the symptoms resemble neurological conditions, diagnostic tests do not reveal any physical damage or pathology.
Related and Co-occurring Conditions
Conversion Disorder frequently coexists with:
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder
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Depression
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Dissociative Disorders
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Personality disorders (such as borderline or histrionic)
Addressing these conditions alongside FND is critical for recovery.
When to Seek Help
Professional help should be sought if:
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You or someone you know experiences sudden physical symptoms with no clear medical cause
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Episodes are recurrent or worsening
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There is a history of trauma or psychological distress
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You feel dismissed or misunderstood by general healthcare providers
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The symptoms interfere with personal or professional life
Early intervention improves prognosis and reduces chronic disability.
How Calida Rehab Supports Individuals With Conversion Disorder
At Calida Rehab, we specialize in understanding the link between psychological distress and physical health. For individuals with Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder, we provide:
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Trauma-informed psychotherapy (CBT, DBT, or EMDR)
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Psychosomatic education and insight-building
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Occupational and physiotherapy to restore function
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Stress reduction and emotional regulation techniques
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Supportive community and safe space to process emotions
Our centers in Pune, Mumbai, and Karjat offer a tranquil and professional environment for healing from conversion symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
No. While rooted in psychological processes, the symptoms are very real and disabling. It is not a sign of weakness or intentional behavior.
Many people recover fully, especially with early treatment. However, symptoms can return during times of stress if left unaddressed.
Malingering involves faking symptoms for personal gain, while Conversion Disorder symptoms are involuntary and subconscious.
Medication may help manage associated anxiety or depression, but therapy is typically the primary treatment.
Unfortunately, many individuals face disbelief. That’s why specialized centers like Calida Rehab exist—to validate and support your recovery journey.
Final Word
Conversion Disorder bridges the invisible line between mind and body. It reminds us that emotional pain can take a physical form when words fall short. With understanding, clinical care, and compassionate support, recovery is not only possible—it is entirely within reach.