What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disorder. Alcohol can cross the placenta during pregnancy, and interfere with normal development of the baby.
FASD is an umbrella term for a spectrum of conditions; some children may only develop mild symptoms while others may be severely affected.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe condition in the spectrum, and the only form that can be recognised visibly.
A person with FASD is more prone to illness, physical and mental health problems, and learning and behavioural disorders. Because of their problems, they may become expelled from school, develop problematic use of drugs and alcohol, develop mental health problems, and find it difficult to get a job and live independently as adults.
FASD is Scotland’s most common, but often invisible, brain-damaging birth defect. There are an estimated 375 children and young people with FASD in the Highlands.
You can find out more about FASD at this elearning course from the Scottish Government: This is hosted on Turas, and you will need to create an account if you don’t already have one.
Support for professionals supporting children and young people with FASD:
- FASD Scotland
- National FASD – Educators page. Students with FASD will present with a pronounced and complex set of needs that can make it difficult for teachers to know how best to support them.
- FASD Hub Scotland and their various factsheet resources.
- National FASD including FASD Manifesto created by people with FASD
- NHS Ayrshire & Arran have a number of helpful resources, including a webpage, Alcohol and pregnancy – No Alcohol, no risk booklet, Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Summary Guide, and Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) What Educators need to know.
There is also a FASD focused lesson plan available to increase knowledge and understanding for young people.
You might be interested in this blog that was written for the annual FASD Awareness Day; 9th September 2019.