🌼 FASD Awareness Month – Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

September is FASD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) — a condition that affects individuals and families around the world. Awareness is the first step in breaking down stigma and building a more supportive and inclusive society. So, what is FASD — and why is it so important to talk about it?

💡 What Is FASD?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition caused by exposure to alcohol before birth. It can lead to a wide range of lifelong cognitive, emotional, and behavioural challenges. But FASD is more than just a brain-based condition — it's a whole-body diagnosis, with over 400 known associated conditions.

These may include:

• Difficulties with memory, attention, and learning

• Problems with emotional regulation and social interaction

• Challenges with motor skills and coordination

• Speech and language delays

• Sensory sensitivities

• Sleep, feeding, or physical health issues

  
  

Each person with FASD is unique — and so are their strengths and support needs.

🧠 A Lifelong Journey

FASD is a lifelong condition, but with the right understanding, early intervention, and tailored support, individuals with FASD can thrive.

That’s why awareness matters. When families, schools, and communities better understand FASD, we create more compassionate, empowering environments where individuals can flourish.

💙 Why It Matters

FASD often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed — and too many people are misunderstood or unsupported as a result. Awareness helps to:

✔️ Reduce stigma

✔️ Improve early identification

✔️ Guide effective support strategies

✔️ Celebrate the strengths of those with FASD

Together, we can build a world that recognises and respects the needs of people with FASD — not just in September, but all year round.