FASD Awareness Month: Prevention Starts with Awareness and Support

Every September, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to learn more about FASD, support individuals and families who are affected, and talk openly about preventing prenatal alcohol exposure. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, or FASD, are a group of conditions that can occur when a developing baby is exposed to alcohol before birth. Fetal alcohol syndrome, or FAS, is one condition within that spectrum.

The effects of FASD vary from person to person and can last throughout life. They may include challenges with learning, memory, attention, behavior, judgment, communication, and physical development. With understanding, appropriate services, and support, people with FASD can build on their strengths and participate fully in their families and communities.

September 9 is recognized internationally as FASD Awareness Day. The date, 9/9, represents the nine months of pregnancy and serves as a reminder of the importance of an alcohol-free pregnancy.

Prevention includes support

The prevention message is straightforward: there is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy, no safe time during pregnancy to drink, and no type of alcohol known to be safe. The conversation around FASD, however, needs to go further.

People use alcohol and other substances for many reasons. Substance use disorders are complex, and pregnancy does not make recovery simple. Fear, stigma, isolation, mental health concerns, unstable housing, relationships, transportation, and other challenges can make it harder for someone to seek help. That is why prevention needs to include support.

If alcohol use has occurred during pregnancy, it is never too late to stop. Connecting someone with compassionate, practical help can make a difference for the individual, the pregnancy, and the entire family.

FARR provides local support for recovery

Family Service Rochester’s Family Advocacy in Recovery and Restoration (FARR) program supports women age 18 and older who are pregnant and/or parenting and have a current or past struggle with substance use.

FARR recognizes that recovery involves more than simply stopping substance use. Participants work with case managers on goals that can include recovery and mental health, parenting and child development, employment and education, navigating community resources, and building a stronger support network.

Services include:

• One-on-one case management
• Weekly peer support groups
• Sober social activities
• Recovery maintenance support
• Help connecting with resources and services

FARR services are culturally appropriate, gender-specific, comprehensive, and centered on the goals of each participant.

There is no cost for FARR services.

The program currently serves people living in Dodge, Goodhue, Olmsted, Steele, Waseca, and Winona counties and is funded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and Proof Alliance.

Awareness without stigma

FASD Awareness Month is also an opportunity to think about how we talk about prenatal alcohol exposure.

Prevention works better when people feel safe asking questions and seeking help. Shame can push people away from the very services that could support healthier pregnancies and stronger families.

We can share clear information about alcohol and pregnancy while also treating people experiencing substance-use challenges with dignity and compassion. We can support people living with FASD by understanding their strengths and needs rather than defining them by a diagnosis. And we can make sure people know that help is available.

Learn more about FARR

If you are pregnant or parenting and struggling with substance use, or if you know someone who could benefit from support, contact Family Service Rochester’s FARR team.

FARR Team
Phone: 507-780-1628 or 507-287-2010
Email: FARR@familyservicerochester.org

FASD prevention starts with good information. Recovery grows through connection and support. During FASD Awareness Month and throughout the year, Family Service Rochester is here to help individuals and families take the next step.