“You can’t focus exclusively on one part of your body or mind and neglect the rest.”

In this episode of The Conditions for Recovery Podcast Carolyn Sullins, PhD shares her journey from decades of medical gaslighting and misdiagnosis to feeling back in control of her symptoms and her life.

Carolyn now has a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder but it took a long time to reach that outcome. Along the way she faced a huge amount of dismissal, stigma and self doubt.

Carolyn brings her expertise as a researcher to the table to help to increase understanding and support for others living with FND.

Even though Carolyn does not live with persistent pain her insights and experiences will be recognisable to many people with long term conditions and I know that this episode will be exceptionally valuable to many more people than just those with FND.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Carolyn’s long journey to an FND diagnosis: The stigma and self doubt that came with being misunderstood.
• Why symptoms can be real, life altering and vary significantly without showing up on standard scans or tests.
• How collaborative, individualised physical rehabilitation helped Carolyn regain confidence and function.
• Why Stress, Trauma and Mental Health Matter: Without being used to dismiss someone’s physical experience.
• The Need to Move Beyond One Size Fits All Healthcare: Listening to people as whole individuals.

Connect with Carolyn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-sullins-phd-3b89582a/

Substack: https://drsullins.substack.com/

Connect with the Show:

Links: www.paincoaching.co.uk/links

Follow: @SpecialistPainPhysio

Other resources:

Neuro Symptoms: https://neurosymptoms.org/en/

FND Hope: https://fndhope.org/

BOOK YOUR FREE 30-MIN CONSULTATION WITH GEORGE: https://www.paincoaching.co.uk/consultation

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your qualified healthcare professional or personal clinician before making any decisions about your medication, treatment or approach to your health.