What is FASD?
- Celine Dyer
- Sep 4
- 2 min read
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
It affects how the brain and body develop before birth, and each person with FASD will have their own unique strengths and challenges.
FASD is often referred to as a “hidden disability” because its effects aren’t always visible. But for individuals and families, the impact can be very real - shaping learning, communication, emotions, and daily life.
How common is FASD?
Research suggests that 3–5% of the general population could be affected by FASD. That means as many as 1 in every 20 people may be living with this condition (SIGN 156, 2019).
Despite being relatively common, FASD is still under-recognised, and many families face stigma or misunderstanding when trying to access the right support.
How does FASD affect people?
FASD is a spectrum condition, which means no two people experience it in the same way. One person may have significant challenges in one area, while another may have strengths there but difficulties elsewhere.
Research highlights 10 key brain domains that may be affected by prenatal alcohol exposure:
Executive Functioning 🧭
This includes planning, problem solving, managing transitions, and keeping track of time.
Academic Achievement 🎓
Skills like reading, maths, comprehension, and understanding time or money can be affected.
Adaptive Behaviour 🏠
Covers everyday life skills, including understanding social cues, setting personal boundaries, and showing empathy.
Affect Regulation 💖
Relates to managing and expressing emotions, as well as adapting to change.
Brain Structure & Functioning 🧠
Some people may have differences in brain development or smaller head size (microcephaly).
Motor & Sensory Skills ✍️
Movement, co-ordination, handwriting, and reactions to sensory input can be impacted.
Cognition 💭
Thinking, learning, processing information, and organising tasks may be more challenging.
Language 🗣️
Both expressive (talking) and receptive (understanding) language skills can be affected, along with developmental milestones.
Attention 🔎
Focusing on tasks, sitting still, and controlling impulses can be difficult for some individuals.
Memory🔄
Short- and long-term memory may be impacted, including following instructions and remembering routines.
Supporting someone with FASD
People with FASD and their families often benefit from FASD-informed strategies - simple adjustments and approaches that can make a big difference:
Clear routines and structure 📅
Step-by-step instructions 🗣️
Visual reminders and prompts 🖼️
Patience, understanding, and consistency 💙
Celebrating strengths and talents 🌟
With the right support, people with FASD can thrive, learn new skills, and live fulfilling lives.
Raising awareness this September
September is FASD Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing posts to:
Raise understanding of FASD ✅
Challenge stigma and myths ✅
Empower families living with FASD ✅
Together, we can build a more informed and supportive community where individuals with FASD and their families feel understood, accepted, and empowered.
Categories & Tags for Blog
Category: Learning About Neurodivergence
Tags: FASD, Awareness Days, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Sensory Processing, Carers Support
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