FASD is a diagnostic term used to describe impacts on the brain and body of babies exposed to alcohol before they are born. FASD is a lifelong disability where you experience some challenges in your daily living. To reach your full potential living with FASD you may need support with:
- motor skills
- physical health
- learning
- memory
- attention
- communication
- emotional regulation
- social skills.
Everyone with FASD is unique and has areas of both strengths and challenges.
The Every Moment Matters campaign aims to increase Australia’s awareness of the risks of alcohol consumption:
- during a pregnancy
- planning a pregnancy
- breastfeeding.
The key message of the campaign is that every moment matters in your pregnancy, and to make the moment you start trying the moment to stop drinking.
We support the National Organisation for FASD Australia (NOFASD Australia) who will be promoting FASD awareness during September. If you are a health professional, researcher, or policymaker, you can find FASD information and resources at the FASD Hub.
We encourage you to get involved if you can – you can post on social media, display information or talk with people in your community. Some resources you may find helpful:
- read the Information Pack for ideas
- download the FASD Fact Sheets
- watch a webinar
- give your own presentation using the FASD 101 PowerPoint slides
- display NOFASD Australia’s printable posters.
You can also join the Red Shoes Rock campaign by wearing red shoes to proudly raise awareness about FASD. RJ Formanek, an adult with FASD, started this campaign by wearing red shoes to stand out and have some fun starting FASD conversations with strangers.
If you are pregnant and finding it hard not to drink alcohol, help is available. To find the support you need you can:
- talk to your doctor, midwife, or obstetrician
- visit the Every Moment Matters support page for a list of organisations who can help.
If you have concerns that your child has been exposed to alcohol before birth, you can seek advice from your doctor or speak to NOFASD Australia
