Supporting People with FASD – How to Be a Guiding Light

In the United States, around 6.5% have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder(FASD). The percentage implies that every 1 of 20 students in a typical classroom faces FASD-related issues. Many people around us are likely to live with FASD, and we may not even know about their challenges.

Supporting such individuals with FASD requires a deep understanding of their unique needs. Many typical behavioral management strategies may exist, but they likely will not work. The reason is that FASD is not just a behavioral problem but spans the whole being.

Therefore, every FASD case is different. They face unique challenges and thus require custom treatments. So, let’s learn about their issues and how we can support such individuals!

Learn About FASD

The more we know about FASD, the better. Additionally, having an early diagnosis is a blessing as now we can mindfully approach the child’s development. And even employ appropriate strategies in adulthood. What is known is that FASD is caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. According to research, there is no known safe time to drink during pregnancy, nor is there a known safe amount or kind of alcohol to drink during pregnancy. If truth be told, alcohol negatively impacts the child’s development while causing a spectrum of impairments throughout their lives.

FASD primarily entails hidden physical and functional changes in the brain, often called an “invisible disability.” Recognizing these issues is the first step in offering meaningful assistance.

Strengths-Based Approach

FASD affects the child pre-birth, so there is no reversal or cure for the disease. To support individuals facing FASD, we must find alternative treatments.

One of the pillars of support for those with FASD is recognizing and acknowledging their strengths. Each person has unique strengths, so our role is to identify and harness these capabilities. By helping them to incorporate their strengths into everyday tasks, we can make a positive difference in their lives.

Building Healthy Relationships

Healthy relationships are fundamental for people with FASD, but they may find it difficult to do so. It helps when others are willing to learn about FASD and not hold things against individuals just because they may do things differently. It is also important that others attempt to maintain healthy connections as relationships give everyone a sense of value, as a need for trust and acceptance is crucial!

So, take the step to educate yourself on FASD and connect with those with FASD in a meaningful, compassionate, and understanding way. Just because someone may have difficulty with relationships does not mean they wouldn’t benefit from healthy connections.

Tailored Adaptation Strategies

First and foremost, a one-size-fits-all strategy, medicine, training, or treatment does not exist. For FASDs or any other group, one must create custom treatments for each individual. The reason is that every individual is one of a kind and has a unique set of challenges and strengths. Furthermore, FASD is not just a cognitive condition but affects a person’s overall being. Brain, body, health, thinking ability, and every other aspect get affected due to FASD.

The solution is to tailor adaptation strategies to an individual’s specific needs, sensitivities, and strengths is essential. Also, collaborative problem-solving and development strategies that build upon what the individual needs throughout development can make a substantial difference.  

Conclusion

Supporting individuals with FASD requires a multi-faceted approach. Acknowledging their unique differences and challenges helps the FASD person and their supporters. This is more than making life better for someone; it’s about acknowledging the value each person can bring to the table. Never miss the chance to do some good in this world, especially when your impact truly matters. Let’s all do our part to lower stigma for those with FASD and increase inclusion. Together, we can make a positive impact!

Meet Emily Hargrove, a Ph.D. Candidate and an FASD counselor holding the torch of understanding and inclusion for FASD. She learned to live and thrive with FASD and now helps other FASD people live better lives. Connect with her and expand your horizon about FASD.