Media release from Alcohol Healthwatch

An Australian author and birthmother of two adult sons affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) is coming to New Zealand next week to share her experiences of raising children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

The free seminar entitled 'Living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in the Family: Trying Differently Not Harder' will be held on Thursday April 29 from 10am till 2:30pm at the Barrycourt Hotel in Parnell. It will look at strategies that work and don't work when FASD is a factor for the family.

Guest speaker Elizabeth Russell is the author of three books, most notably her autobiography, 'Alcohol and Pregnancy - A Mother's Responsible Disturbance.' In the book Elizabeth discusses the challenges of raising two children affected by her drinking during pregnancy and her advocacy for improved services for affected families.

Russell says that many families struggle to deal with the behavioral difficulties of FASD.  

"Some individuals with an FASD might appear unmotivated, stubborn or defiant when in reality they can't remember, can't understand and can't explain.  

"Knowing the pitfalls to avoid and approaching situations in different ways can make a huge difference and save a lot of heart-ache and trouble."

The seminar, hosted by Alcohol Healthwatch, aims to provide important information for those living with or assisting affected individuals in New Zealand.

Alcohol Healthwatch's Christine Rogan, who coordinates the Fetal Alcohol Network says it is important that people not only understand the link between drinking during pregnancy and FASD but also how best to understand, communicate and support those who are born affected.  

"Misunderstandings of what is actually going on can make problems far worse than they need be. The earlier a child with an FASD can be identified and understood, the greater their chance is of growing up successfully."  

Further details about the seminar are available on the Alcohol Healthwatch website, www.ahw.org.nz