Fetal Alcohol Spectrum is a condition that results from a fetus being exposed to alcohol during gestation. The condition causes a wide range disorders, and these are all covered under the newer umbrella term of FASD. According to The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, or NOFAS, FASD is the leading preventable cause of mental retardation and birth defects, and occurs in more children than autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida and sudden infant death syndrome combined. FASD is a lifelong condition that has no cure, but there are treatments available to manage the symptoms.
Medical Care
According to the Centers for Disease Control, FASD sufferers often need the care of audiologists, neurologists, otolaryngologist and psychiatrists. Many of the symptoms associated with FASD can be helped with medications, including stimulant, antidepressant, neuroleptic and anti-anxiety drugs. These medications are meant to manage symptoms such as ADHD, aggression, sleep problems, school disruptions and anxiety.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is one of the most effective ways to help individuals with FASD by creating an "external brain." The University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine explains that an external brain is a system of people and prompts designed to make life easier to understand and navigate. Examples include picture charts of daily responsibilities and reminders such as alarm clocks. Additionally, training in social and communication skills, as well as how to make better choices and have better living skills are crucially important for those with FASD.
Parent Training
The Centers for Disease Control advocates that teaching parents and caregivers how to work with FASD children can improve the situation for everyone involved. Someone with FASD has very little room for any "grey area"--the brain functions more in terms of black and white. Cause and effect must be clear, and consequences must be consistent at all times. Structure is crucially important, as is using concrete language and making expectations and directions very simple and clear.
