Texas FASD Network provides support and resources for parents and caregivers with a loved one affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Our organization also provides trainings for educators, mental health, medical and justice system professionals. FASD describes the range of effects to an individual that may occur with
prenatal exposure to alcohol. These effects may include cognitive, behavioral, learning difficulties, mental health, or physical issues.
Texas FASD Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and affiliate of FASD United.

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About FASD

 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term covering the various diagnoses given to the conditions on the spectrum. FASD is a brain-based disorder which changes the structure and function of the brain.

 

FASD is an invisible disorder, often misdiagnosed as ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), mood disorder, emotional disturbance, autism, or anxiety. Unless the individual is correctly diagnosed, medication, traditional therapies and parenting styles will be ineffective. Intervention is the key in supporting an individual with an FASD. FASD is a developmental disorder with life-long implications.

Current studies indicate that FASD impacts 1 in 20 U.S. children. Thus, it is more prevalent than autism, yet most practitioners know little or nothing about FASD.

Early identification and diagnosis offer the best chance for a successful outcome by implementing appropriate strategies and accommodations.

Diagnostic Terms of FASD

 Common diagnoses under the umbrella of FASD in the U.S. are:

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (pFAS)

FAS is the most recognized of the prenatal alcohol exposure conditions, yet accounts
for only 10% of FASD cases. FAS and pFAS have distinct facial features, growth
deficits, and neurological damage. They are medical diagnoses.

Neurobehavioral Disorder Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (ND-PAE)

Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND)

Static Encephalopathy 

ARND and static encephalopathy (related to probable prenatal alcohol exposure) are
medical diagnoses without prominent facial features or growth deficits.

ND-PAE is now included in the diagnostic manual of the American Psychiatric
Association, the DSM-5. It recognizes the behavioral and mental health effects of
individuals with prenatal alcohol-related impairments.

Most individuals with an FASD are misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. Not all have
low IQ, facial features or growth deficits. But they all have neurological impairments,
often presenting as learning differences, mental health conditions and/or severe
behavioral challenges. Individuals may present well to others and appear social. They
may have normal or even high IQ, but cannot meet age-appropriate expectations.

Characteristics of  FASD

Cognitive Impairments

Executive functioning difficulties: problems initiating activities, organization, high-level thinking challenges 

Learning difficulties
Memory problems
Visual-spatial issues
Confabulation

Adaptive Functioning Impairments

Receptive language comprehension

Social skill weaknesses

Daily living difficulties

Functions younger than chronological age (dysmaturity)

Behavioral Difficulties

Self-regulation

Anger or mood issues

Attention difficulties

Impulse control, such as non-planned “stealing”

Perseveration

Possible Strengths

Friendly and likeable with others
Verbal
Good with younger children, elderly and animals
Artistically gifted
Hard worker
Not malicious
Unique points of view

Parents and Caregivers

Texas FASD Network has several parent support groups located in the DFW area. Through meetings, discussions, sharing resources, and family events we are able to develop connections that make an impact. With like-minded individuals we create a community of people that understand the journey. Together, we talk through the issues presented and offer support and hope. Support group meetings, latest articles and community information are available through our newsletter or our Facebook group.

Texas Facebook group

Texas FASD Facebook group is private. We are a feisty, curious group of people loving those impacted by FASD. We welcome new members at any time with questions and involvement.

Training

Understanding FASD is critical for strategic and successful interventions. FASD-trained
professionals will identify children and youth affected by alcohol-exposure. Challenging behaviors and learning differences will be understood as a brain-based disability, rather than a need for consequences or discipline.

Persons with an FASD can succeed when their environments and accommodations are modified to their unique needs. This FASD training can help improve the lives of so many individuals in the Texas. 

Our training provides the following:

Basic information on FASD
How alcohol is more damaging to the fetus than other substances of abuse
Characteristics of the individual with an FASD
Effective parenting/caregiving strategies
Best therapeutic approaches
Educational tips and advocacy
Resources and supports

We tailor our training to the audience: educators, caregivers, social services, mental health professionals, justice system personnel, and/or medical professionals. 

Simply complete the contact information below or email us at texasfasd@gmail.com

ContactTexas FASD Network

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