International FASD Awareness Day

Yellowknife (September 7, 2012) – September 9th, 2012 is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day, an opportunity for communities to support prevention and intervention of FASD.

“Some expectant mothers need support through their pregnancies,” said Tom Beaulieu, Minister of Health and Social Services. “Our new Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan acknowledges the need for support for people dealing with mental health and addiction challenges. These supports should come from health and social services professionals, families and communities.”

 

Preventing FASD is everyone’s responsibility. Mothers and their partners can make healthy choices before, during and after pregnancy. Family, friends and communities can all help. Supporting all women of childbearing years to make healthy choices in pregnancy, including a focus on prenatal alcohol use, provides a foundation for preventing FASD. It is a complex disability that requires communities to join together.

The NWT continues to be involved in the Canadian Northwest FASD Partnership, which raises the profile of FASD support and prevention.

For more information and for a list of community events to recognize FASD Awareness Day, visit:

• The Department of Health and Social Services’ website
• The Department of Health and Social Services’ YouTube channel
• The Department of Justice’s website

For more information, contact:

Damien Healy
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-8927

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