Note:The following covers a range of symptoms that are experienced by people who have FASD.
It does NOT mean that people with FASD can be described this way nor that relating to anything

below means that one has FASD.

I have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). FASD is a term used to collectively refer to a range of disabilities caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. Because FASD is an organic brain disorder that affects the central nervous system and involved permanent chemical damage to the cells and to the connections between those cells in the brain, the effects last a lifetime.

However, that doesn’t mean that I cannot be successful in life. Here are some things you need to know about the way my brain works and how to understand my reality.

Repetition of directions, instructions and concepts is very important because it allows information to be stored in the habit area of the brain (the right hippocampus) where it will be remembered more easily.

Routine and consistency help me to make better sense of the world. Establishing a routine and sticking to it helps me to function more effectively.

I can be impulsive at times and this can affect my relationships. Role modelling and visual cues can help enhance my interactions with others. You may need to adjust some of your expectations to my developmental age, which may be different from my chronological age.

My receptive and expressive language may not be the same. Often, I can repeat something back but may not fully understand it. It is very important to follow through with me and ensure that understanding is reached.

I often have sensory issues that lead to sensory overload. I may also become overwhelmed if too much stimulus or information is entering the brain at once This may show itself through intense frustration, anger or other emotional outbursts. I need a safe place of my choice to calm down when I’m feeling overloaded or overwhelmed.

I have a unique level of sensitivity to criticism. I can become very upset with a sigh or angry glance. It helps to be aware of my sensitivity and to act accordingly.

Learning and retention of information is accomplished in small steps or stages. I may need you to guide me through a task in simple steps, one step at a time.

I can have difficulties with time and money concepts, so I may show up late or miss appointments and forget to pay bills. It helps to have things like reminder phone calls before appointments and assistance with budgeting and due dates for household bills. I may request that a parent or support person accompany me during appointments, meetings and job interviews so that they can help to interpret information.

I have many strengths and things that I am good at. Take the time to find out what I can do, and emphasize the positive!