Individuals with FASD require appropriate services that are tailored for their unique strengths and challenges. Evidence shows that AOD substance use is unfortunately a secondary condition that can develop for individuals with FASD, especially if an individual has not had the benefit of appropriate, FASD-informed supports at an early age.
Accordingly, NOFASD Australia congratulates our colleagues at CanFASD (Canada FASD Research Network) on the release of their publication. Moving Towards FASD-Informed Care In Substance Use Treatment. which addresses this important issue for the FASD community.
Being FASD-informed involves understanding FASD as a disorder while simultaneously acknowledging the individuality of each person The recommended practices in this guide are based on findings from a large, multi-phase research project that included data collection from multiple sources involving service providers, individuals with lived experiences, and previous literature.
The research was conducted between 2020 and 2022 and the findings highlighted the need for FASD-informed substance use treatment to best serve the FASD population by being tailored to their unique neurodevelopmental needs. The recommended practices include screening and identification, adjusting treatment practices throughout the treatment journey, and program philosophies that are important to consider for individuals with FASD.
