Bear in Mind Ep. 17
What happens when the body shuts down—but nothing shows up on a scan?
This week, we explore Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND)—a complex and often misunderstood condition that causes real symptoms like seizures, paralysis, or loss of speech, with no detectable neurological cause.
Our guest, Dr. Curt LaFrance, double-boarded in psychiatry and neurology, helps break down what we do (and don’t) know about FND. From diagnosis to treatment and stigma, we cover the science, the struggle, and the hope.
🎙 Hosted by Drs. Tracey Guthrie, Camilla Cosmo, and Nisha Jain.
📍Listen, learn, and remember: Mental health is health.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share the episode to help others stay informed.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction & Content Warning
0:41 What is Functional Neurological Disorder?
1:24 Meet Dr. Curt LaFrance
1:51 Current Definition & Diagnostic Criteria
2:50 Understanding the Brain-Mind Connection
8:00 The Historical Context
15:00 Diagnostic Challenges
25:00 Treatment Approaches
35:00 Patient Experiences & Case Studies
45:00 Breaking Down Stigma & Future Directions
49:00 Closing Thoughts & Resources

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At Episode #16 of BiM we will address the ongoing public mental health crisis, evaluating governmental and societal responsibilities while exploring evidence-based interventions. We are honored to welcome Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, a renowned psychiatry and addiction specialist, who will share her extensive experience and expertise in addressing systemic barriers and identifying viable pathways forward. Join us for this conversation as we walk through the complexities of our mental healthcare system, discuss strategies to improve access to our most vulnerable populations, and explore ways to drive meaningful, lasting changes.

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Topic: Early Life Stress & Trauma
Script editors: Elizabeth Modde, MD, & Marisa Hollinshead, MD
Senior editors: Ellie McCance-Katz, MD PhD
Co-EIC: Tracey Guthrie, MD & Camila Cosmo, MD PhD
Guest: Audrey Tyrka, MD PhD
Host: Tracey Guthrie, MD
Co-host: Camila Cosmo, MD PhD
Video/Audio producer: William Cosmo, MBA

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