There are no cures for FAS and other related conditions – they are lifelong. Prevention is the only “cure”.

If you are pregnant and unable to stop drinking you should seek support immediately in order to prevent the possibility of your child being affected with FAS. Make an appointment with your physician, or contact a local Alcoholics Anonymous or other alcohol treatment center for help.

If you have a partner, he or she also has a crucial role to play in preventing FAS by encouraging you to abstain from drinking. They can also show support by abstaining themselves, particularly in social situations where there is a pressure to drink alcohol.

The most important thing for a child with FAS is a supportive and loving environment. As the research shows, children who suffer from FAS, ARBD or ARND are at a higher risk of schooling problems as children, and mental health problems, criminal behavior and drug and alcohol abuse as adults. These children are not born with these conditions, but the difficulties of coping with FASDs increases their susceptibility.

However, research also shows that a stable, loving and supportive home environment and special education make a dramatic difference to the security and well being of sufferers of FASDs.

Families coping with FASDs are under considerable strain to provide this much-needed stable environment. Fortunately, awareness of the disorder is more prominent than it has been in the past, and plenty of support is available if you ask for it. The first point of contact for finding support is your physician or public health nurse. They can help you find local professional advice and support, and put you in touch with other families who have children with FASDs. Be assured that constant support of your child will make a difference.