Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (NEAD) service
The NEAD service supports adults aged 18 and over who have a diagnosis of Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (NEAD), also known as functional or dissociative seizures. We also offer advice and consultation to professionals in primary and secondary care.
The service operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, excluding bank holidays.
Referrals can be made by neurologists. Please complete the referral form and return it to: spft.
Please note, we do not accept referrals for general Functional Neurological Disorder (FND); individuals must have a confirmed diagnosis of NEAD.
The NEAD service is a Sussex wide service.
Our team base in located at the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath. Public buses stop outside the entrance of the hospital and Haywards Heath train station is 1.2 miles from the hospital. If you need help travelling to the hospital and can't use public transport due to medical reasons then there are options to help you.
We also offer virtual appointments.
The team consists of
- Counselling Psychologist
- Consultant Psychiatrist
- Admin
Assessment
Once your referral is accepted, you will be invited to an assessment with one of our clinicians. The aim of this appointment is to help us understand the difficulties you're currently experiencing with your NEAD and to consider a treatment plan tailored to your needs. The assessment may take place in person at our team base at the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath, or virtually. Please allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the appointment.
To support the training of future NHS professionals, students from various disciplines may occasionally observe assessments. Your assessment may therefore be conducted by one or two members of the NEAD service team. Please let us know if you would prefer not to have a student present
During the assessment, you will be asked a number of questions. The first part will focus on your seizures, both current and past. The second part will explore your personal history, including childhood, family, social circumstances, and any physical or mental health difficulties.
You are welcome to bring someone with you to your assessment. If possible, we prefer to discuss your history with you in private; however, it is your choice whether they stay or wait outside during this part of the assessment.
Treatment
The NEAD service offers six sessions of group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The focus is on recognising seizure triggers, managing symptoms with practical techniques, and addressing anxiety and avoidance through graded exposure. We also support independence and goal setting using behavioural activation, alongside psychoeducation about NEAD. The group setting provides a chance to learn from and share experiences with others.
In some cases, we may recommend additional services to work alongside the NEAD service in supporting different aspects of your health.