Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

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Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition affecting newborns whose mothers consumed alcohol during pregnancy. Studies have shown that the issue may affect both psychical appearance and mental health. The problem impairs which biological functions, as Williams, Smith, and Committee on Substance Abuse (2015) describe it, “exposure to alcohol can damage the developing fetus” (p. 1395).

Neurodevelopmental disabilities are often linked to FAS, with scientists developing diagnostics criteria and prevention programs to counteract the issue. However, according to Williams et al. (2015), the problems connected to mental health caused by FAS remain in place throughout the life of a patient. Early diagnostics and therapy can help improve some of the common symptoms, and thus better quality of life for an individual.

Additionally, the studies on FAS revealed that no amount of alcohol during pregnancy could be justified. Williams et al. (2015) state that “no amount of alcohol intake should be considered safe” (p. 1396). Additionally, the researchers identified that there is no period during pregnancy, in which exposure to alcohol would not affect a fetus. Nor is there a particular type of alcohol that can be considered safe in regards to FAS.

Moreover, FAS is only one issue that can be caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Other problems include partial fetal alcohol syndrome, alcohol-related congenital disabilities, and neurological effects. Popova et al. (2016) state that many comorbidities are associated with FAS; thus Ms. D. should be further examined to determine the scope of issues. The author’s study revealed that psychological consequences include dependence syndrome and psychoactive substance abuse. Thus, it is evident that substance consumption in any period of pregnancy impairs the biological development of a fetus. This aspect affects the mental and psychical health of an individual.

As was previously mentioned, FAS affects an individual throughout a lifetime and can not be adequately treated. However, therapy can help improve some of the coping skills and mechanisms that would help Ms. D take care of herself and her newborn son. Williams et al. (2015) state that “psychological and vocational outcomes through longitudinal intervention and treatment that maximize protective factors and build capacity in identified strengths” (p. 1399).

Social support and education are among the crucial aspects of such interventions. Neuroleptic medication can help improve a patient’s symptoms as well. According to the case assessment, Ms. D. has excellent social support, which should be used as part of the treatment strategy.

Further mental health assessment is required to identify other possible mental health issues that Ms. D may have. For instance, Murawski, Moore, Thomas, and Riley (2015) state that other problems such as attention deficit disorder (ADHD) co-occur in 50% of FAS cases. The authors suggest treating comorbid conditions using conventional approaches to an illness intervention, which may include medication and therapy. However, Williams et al. (2015) state that in some cases, stimulants can worsen the symptoms of patients; thus, the prescription should be closely monitored to reduce adverse effects.

A focus on educational strategies should help Ms. D. adjust her daily life activities. Pruett, Wateman, and Caughey (2013) substantiate the approach of Murawski et al. (2015) by suggesting diagnosing other conditions and approaching treatment through pharmacology and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, they state that education regarding parenting and substance abuse dangers can be beneficial for FAS patients as those would improve their understanding of the existing problems.

References

Murawski, N. J., Moore, E. M., Thomas, J. D., & Riley, E. D. (2015). Advances in diagnosis and treatment of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: From animal models to human studies. Alcohol Research, 37(1), 97-108. Web.

Popova, S., Lange, S., Shield, K., Mihic, A., Chudley, A. E., Mukherjee, R. A., … Rehm, J. (2016). Comorbidity of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet, 387(10022), 978-987. Web.

Pruett, D., Wateman, E. H, & Caughey, A. B. (2013). Fetal alcohol exposure: Consequences, diagnosis, and treatment. Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey, 68(1), 62-69. Web.

Williams, J. F., Smith, V. C., Committee on Substance Abuse. (2015). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Pediatrics, 136(5), 1395-1406. Web.

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