Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) & Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Essential training: What are the differences?

'FASD is the most severe of the neurodevelopmental disorders in terms of its far-reaching impact on functioning across the lifespan, and requires a unique approach to support and understanding.'

Dr Cassie Jackson Consultant Clinical Psychologist

One of the major differences is that NAS can be treated, but FASD is lifelong. 

Using certain substances like opioids or meth can cause neonatal abstinence syndrome, NAS is mainly linked to opioids (such as heroin, codeine, oxycodone, methadone, and/or buprenorphine), some prescription medications (like antidepressants) and illegal substances (such as meth) are found to cause Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).

Although both FASD and NAS are caused by substance use during pregnancy, there are many key differences between these two conditions.

In this session:

• We will differentiate & examine the common symptoms of FASD and NAS.

• We will consider challenges that are seen in both conditions.

• Not every person with prenatal substance exposure will have an FASD or NAS but how do we tell the difference?

• How do we support early intervention?

• Identify how alcohol & drugs are Neuro-Developmental Trauma 

• We will explore the huge impact of alcohol on the brain and its vulnerabilities

• Examine how the alcohol informs the spectrum of need and its co-occurring conditions including Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Tourette’s etc

• Review developmental milestones in the womb; compare the impact on the brain and explain the lifelong impact

• Recognise the brain functions and how FASD impacts development

• Illustrate the facial features of FASD and when these are formed

• Examine the developmental divergence of peers

• Good practice in multi-disciplinary teams and signposting to services

  
  

  Good practice in neurodevelopmental support informs us that working towards being ‘Responsive’ includes empowering all members of the team who come into contact with child/ren with prenatal exposure to alcohol.

  
  

  Find out more & to book please email us: info@fasdinformed.co.uk

  
  

  ©FASD Informed UK