Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: One Minute to Midnight

Authors

  • Ann Carrellas University of Toledo

Keywords:

fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, social work practice, advocacy, policy

Abstract

This reflection focuses on my experiences as a social worker working with individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and their families for almost 40 years. The first child I met with fetal alcohol syndrome was a three-year-old who stole my heart with his boundless energy and big smile. Ever since I met “Darren” and a group of advocates who shared my interest in this disorder, we have sought to raise awareness about the leading preventable cause of intellectual and developmental disabilities in the United States. I feel an urgency to share what I have learned from individuals with FASDs and family members about what it’s like to live with an FASD with helping professionals who are encountering children and adults who have FASDs but who are going unrecognized. As a nation, it is time to address the impact of prenatal exposure to alcohol on individuals, families, and communities.

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Published

2021-04-09

How to Cite

Carrellas, A. (2021). Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: One Minute to Midnight. Reflections: Narratives of Professional Helping, 27(1), 32–48. Retrieved from https://reflectionsnarrativesofprofessionalhelping.org/index.php/Reflections/article/view/1824

Issue

Section

General Submissions