Out From Under the Rug

Yesterday there was an article in our local newspaper about how, years ago, doctors never said the word “cancer” because of the sigma. The same was true of schizophrenia. The stigma of mental illness continues, but the conversation is more open now. We are beginning to recognize that mental illness touches many lives, and people are hungry for information.

The story of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is similar. Most people know very little about FASD, although it affects at least five in one hundred children born today.

And the difficulty of getting a diagnosis is shameful. A doctor would never say, “Looks like pneumonia,” and leave it at that. Although there is not a cure for FASD, there are behavioral and academic approaches that can make a difference.

Children and families affected by FASD can now join online forums for support and information. But we must actively teach about FASD and disseminate information to all.

Not only will this help prevent more cases, but will provide support for those already affected. FASD is a potentially life-threatening condition. We cannot afford to sweep it under the rug.