Released by the fasdNL Network, the paper provides a foundation of facts and figures on the disorder in this province as well as best practices.
“Effectively addressing FASD requires a multi-pronged approach,” the paper reads. “FASD prevention work is critical to reduce the number of people living with FASD in the future; FASD diagnoses are valuable in informing how people can interpret behaviours, create nurturing environments, and set realistic expectations; and effective FASD interventions and supports from infancy to adulthood can dramatically improve one’s chances at participating and contributing more fully in community.”
Three recommendations are made: establishing a permanent, part-time consulting and co-ordinating position within the fasdNL Network; put a mental health ad addictions consultant from the Department of Health and Community Services on the fasdNL Network’s board of directors; and expand teams doing diagnostic screening, assessment and other supports, making them accessible to all residents of the province.
The fasdNL Network says it is encouraged by the provincial government’s recently released action plan for mental health and addictions care, and hopes to follow that lead.
“We have requested an opportunity for members of the fasdNL Network to meet with provincial government to discuss the paper and recommendations. We look forward to the opportunity to share this paper, its recommendations and information about fasdNL with media,” reads a news release from the network.
The paper is being released in the leadup to International FASD Awareness Day on Sept. 9. Several events to mark the day will take place around the province:
· A Walk in the Park in Stephenville: 12:15 p.m. Friday at Blanche Brook Park (or L.S. Eddy Complex if it rains). Contact Patti at [email protected] or 643-5399 for details.
· Heart & Sole 3K Walk/Family Fun Run in St. John’s: 10:30 a.m. Saturday in Bowring Park, meeting by the bungalow. Register at www.events.runningroom.com.
· A Walk in the Park in Grand Falls-Windsor: 11:30 a.m. Friday at Church Road Park (Memorial United Church if it rains). Contact Exploits Valley Community Coalition at 709-489-8133 for more information.
· Barbecue in Happy Valley-Goose Bay: 12 p.m. Friday at the RCMP detachment.
WEBLINK: www.facebook.com/fasdnl/
