In the United States, around 6.5% have a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). A more conservative number suggests that in a typical classroom, 1 in 20 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 support. So, let’s learn broadly how we can support individuals with an FASD!
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. Truthfully, any exposure to alcohol during development can have negative implications across a lifespan.
FASD primarily entails physical and health-related issues and brain-related challenges associated with behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and mental health struggles. This whole-body diagnosis has life-long implications.
Strengths-Based Approach
FASD affects the individual during development, and while there is no known "cure", support and other interventions can be employed. To support individuals facing FASD, we must find be willing to consider unique strategies and scaffolding.
One of the pillars of support for those with FASD is recognizing and acknowledging their strengths. Each person has unique strengths, so we can choose to draw out and harness these capabilities. By helping them to incorporate their strengths into everyday tasks, we emphasize acceptance and inclusion. Moreover, anyone rises to meet expectations. Let's set positive, healthy, and strengths-based expectations.
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. A 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. (For more specifics, please read the blog Everything, well, almost everything, you need to know about FASD.)
Conclusion
Supporting individuals with FASD requires a multi-faceted approach. Acknowledging their unique differences and challenges helps the individual and their community of support. 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 advocating for understanding and inclusion for individuals with FASD. She has learned to live and thrive with FASD and now helps others with FASD uncover their strengths, as well. Connect with her to broaden your understanding of FASD.
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