Invisible, But Not Alone: Recognizing the Signs of FASD
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is often called an “invisible disability” — and for good reason. Many individuals living with FASD don’t have obvious physical features or a formal diagnosis. But their daily struggles are very real.
At Foothills Fetal Alcohol Society (FFAS), we believe awareness is the first step to support. By learning to recognize the signs of FASD, we can create more understanding communities, more effective systems of care, and brighter futures for individuals and families impacted by prenatal alcohol exposure.
FASD Affects the Brain — Not Just the Body
FASD is a lifelong disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. While some individuals may have physical traits associated with exposure, most of the challenges are neurological. That means many people with FASD look just like everyone else — but may process, behave, and respond very differently.
Common Signs of FASD
You may not see it at first glance, but here are some signs that someone might be living with FASD:
Memory struggles – repeating mistakes or forgetting instructions moments after hearing them
Impulsivity or poor judgment – acting before thinking, struggling with consequences
Difficulty with transitions or change – routines are important; disruption can trigger distress
Trouble with time, money, or abstract thinking – these concepts may be hard to grasp
Strong verbal skills that mask deeper struggles – they may “talk the talk,” but daily living is still a challenge
Sensory sensitivities – overwhelmed by sound, texture, or light
Trouble with cause and effect – learning from experience may not come naturally
Emotional regulation difficulties – mood swings or “outbursts” that aren’t about attention or bad behaviour
These signs are not always unique to FASD, and not everyone with FASD experiences all of them. But when several of these challenges appear together and consistently impact daily life, an FASD assessment may be the next best step.
Why Early Recognition Matters
Without proper understanding, individuals with FASD are often misunderstood. They may be labeled as lazy, defiant, or manipulative — when really, they are doing the best they can with the brain they have.
With the right support, people with FASD can thrive. Early recognition helps families access:
Specialized assessments and diagnoses
School and workplace accommodations
Community-based supports and programs
Better outcomes — socially, emotionally, and mentally
FFAS Is Here to Help
If something about your child, student, client, or even yourself feels like “something’s off” — trust that feeling. You don’t need all the answers. You just need a safe place to ask the questions.
At FFAS, we provide FASD education, support, assessments, and real-life strategies to help individuals and families navigate this journey. You are not alone. And neither are they.
📞 403-652-4776 | 📧 general@foothillsfas.com
We are here. 💚
