Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

✎ Q: What is FND In Focus?

➤ A: FND In Focus is an annual video competition hosted by Not Defined by FND. It is designed to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and promote understanding of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) through creative storytelling. Learn more about the competition.

✎ Q: When does the competition take place?

➤ A: Submissions open on November 1 and close on January 31. See more key dates & deadlines.

✎ Q: When is the theme announced?

➤ A: The annual theme is announced on FND Awareness Day (April 13). Learn more about this year's theme.

✎ Q: Who can participate?

➤ A: The competition is open to individuals and teams located within the United States. Participants of all experience levels are welcome. Learn more about eligibility requirements.

✎ Q: Do I need to be a professional creator?

➤ A: Not at all. You do not need professional experience or equipment. Strong storytelling and clear messaging are more important than production quality.

✎ Q: Can teams include members from different locations?

➤ A: Yes, as long as all team members are based in the United States.

✎ Q: Can I submit more than one video?

➤ A: No. Each participant may submit one (1) video only. Participants may not submit multiple entries or participate on multiple teams.

✎ Q: Why is the competition limited to U.S. participants?

➤ A: As a U.S.-based nonprofit, there are legal and regulatory considerations related to awarding prizes. Participation may expand in future years as the competition grows.

✎ Q: How long can my video be?

➤ A: All videos must be 60 seconds or less. Videos that exceed the time limit may be disqualified. See the Video Guidelines page for more information on video requirements. 

✎ Q: What is required in my video?

➤ A: Submissions must meet all competition requirements, including:

• Inclusion of at least one official competition logo

• At least one credible FND-related statistic with a source

• Compliance with all technical and content guidelines

A full Video Requirements Checklist is available in the Participant Resources section.

✎ Q: Can I update my submission after submitting?

➤ A: Yes. If submissions are still open, you may resubmit an updated version. Only the most recent submission received before the deadline will be considered for review and judging, provided it has gone through the submission review process. You will receive a confirmation email once your submission has been successfully received and entered.

✎ Q: What does this year’s theme mean?

➤ A: There is no single “right” way to interpret the theme. We encourage creative approaches that challenge misconceptions, highlight real experiences, and present thoughtful, well-researched perspectives on FND.

✎ Q: Can I use AI tools in my video?

➤ A: AI tools may be used to support elements such as visuals or editing. However, the core storytelling, research, and creative direction should reflect your own work.

✎ Q: How should I include statistics in my video?

➤ A: Statistics may be presented using on-screen text, captions, or visuals. All information should be accurate, credible, and properly sourced. See more about Using Credible Sources.

✎ Q: How are winners selected?

➤ A:  There are two primary award categories:

• Judge’s Choice (Not Defined By FND) Award – selected by a panel of judges using an official scoring rubric

• People’s Choice Award – determined through public voting among finalists

See the Prizes & Recognition page for more information about available awards, and the Participant Information page to learn how videos are evaluated and scored to determine prize eligibility.

✎ Q: How does People's Choice Voting work?

➤ A: The top ten highest-scoring videos from the Judge’s Choice round advance to People’s Choice Voting. (The 3 Judge’s Choice winners are removed from this stage.) The public is then invited to watch all finalist videos and vote by ranking their top three favorites through an official voting form. The top three videos with the highest number of votes will be selected as the People’s Choice winners.

• See the People's Choice Voting Page. 

• View the People's Choice Voting Rules.

✎ Q: Will I receive feedback on my submission?

➤ A: Judge commentary is not guaranteed. Judges may choose to provide feedback on some submissions, but not all. If comments are provided, they may be shared at the organization’s discretion and are intended to offer helpful insight, highlight strengths, or suggest areas for improvement.

✎ Q: Can I use music, images, or other content in my video?

➤ A:   Yes, but only if the content is original, royalty-free, or properly licensed. Participants are responsible for ensuring they have permission to use any third-party content.

✎ Q: Do I need to include the Not Defined By FND logo?

➤ A: Yes. At least one official Not Defined By FND logo must be included in your video.

✎ Q: Will my video be shared publicly?

➤ A: Yes. By submitting, you agree that your video may be used for awareness, educational, and promotional purposes, including public voting and featured content.

✎ Q: What happens if my video does not meet the requirements?

➤ A: Submissions that do not meet competition guidelines or policies may be disqualified.

✎ Q: Where can I find full competition details?

➤ A:   Complete guidelines, rules, and resources are available throughout the competition website and in the participant packet.

• Purpose of the Competition

• Eligibility Details

• Key Dates & Deadlines

• Video Guidelines

• Submission Instructions

• Prizes & Recognition

• Judging & Scoring Details

• People's Choice Voting

• Participant Resources

• Contest Agreements & Policies

✎ Q: Who can I contact with questions?

➤ A:   If you have questions or need clarification, please contact: info@notdefinedbyfnd.org or see the Contact Us page.