September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month

(WAND) - September marks the start of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders refer to a range of lifelong physical, behavioral, and cognitive disabilities caused by alcohol exposure before birth.

FASD affects an estimated 1-5% of first graders in the U.S. Those living with FASD may have challenges in areas like:

Learning and memory
Understanding and following directions
Switching attention between tasks
Controlling emotions and impulsivity
Communicating and developing social skills
Experiencing depression and anxiety
Performing daily life skills, including feeding, bathing, counting money, telling time, and minding personal safety

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission urges expectant mothers struggling with alcohol to seek help for both you and your unborn child, said Executive Director Lisa Gardner. "We encourage anyone facing dependency to talk with a healthcare provider or counselor. Support is available you just need to reach out."