# data[].attributes.headline
WILLIAMS LAKE DECLARES SEPTEMBER 9TH AS FASD AWARENESS DAY

# data[].attributes.subject
WILLIAMS LAKE DECLARES SEPTEMBER 9TH AS FASD AWARENESS DAY

# data[].attributes.body
FASD Awareness Day declared - Williams Lake Tribune Article

Imagine having to memorize all 1,638 intersections in Williams Lake because your brain doesn’t automatically comprehend.

MONICA LAMB-YORSKI

Sep. 6, 2016 10:00 a.m.

NEWS

Imagine having to memorize all 1,638 intersections in Williams Lake because your brain doesn’t automatically comprehend how an intersection works.

Or the frustration you would feel if the bread and milk had been moved at the grocery store and you didn’t realize they would have to be somewhere else in the store.

Those are two real  life struggles of local people who live with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, that FASD key worker Shel Myers shared with the Tribune in a recent interview about his work at the Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre (CDC).

Last week city council agreed to proclaim Friday, Sept. 9, as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day in Williams Lake, after receiving a request from Myers and co-worker FASD parent and support worker Ruth Shaw.

The CDC works with FASD families of children from birth to 18 years of age.

Myers has been involved the last four years and said he loves the challenge and enjoys meeting new families.

“There is always new research going on in Canada,” he said. “Our country is one of the world leaders when it comes to researching FASD.”

When asked to describe what it is like for someone with FASD, Myers gave two examples.

Picture the brain as a filing cabinet, he suggested.

“Whenever you want to access a key piece of information, you access the appropriate cabinet and you pull out the right folder.”

For someone with FASD challenges, imagine taking that filing cabinet, dumping everything and scattering it on the table and trying to find what you are looking for.

Another analogy that Shaw uses, Myers said, is to take a regular gum ball machine that is full of gum balls.

“The challenge is how many times you are going to have to pull on the knob before you get a blue gum ball. You might get it the first try, you might get it on the 50th try. That is sort of what it is like trying to access the processes that you want with an FASD brain.”

The first attempt is probably not going to get the results or information that is needed.

Because FASD is a spectrum it can go all the way from having no noticeable affect at all and there are probably thousands of people in Canada who go undiagnosed and are coping fine.

Then there is the other end of the spectrum with heart, skeletal or brain deformities, hearing, seeing and taste problems.

“Those people are virtually helpless to function in modern society and need an external brain  — somebody with a normal functioning brain to help them get through society.”

At the CDC there is a parent support group that meets regularly in the form of an evening meeting or a luncheon.

It is an opportunity to vent or just socialize, Myers said.

“Parents can step out and be normal for an hour and a half. They are awesome people these parents.”

When they share stories with each other it helps, because as one of the parents said, ‘you cannot make these things up.’”

In his job, Myers tries to help families and caregivers locate appropriate services, books, articles and direct them to the group’s Facebook page — Speaking FASD.

Persons with FASD are super skilled in one area because the part of the brain that did not get damaged in utero becomes hyper developed, Myers said.

He has met people with amazing musical, mechanical or chess abilities.

One boy who was great with lego has gone on to work in Vancouver where he builds architectural models for companies.

There is still anything close to a cure, but some interesting research is being done with stem cells so there is hope, Myers said.

But despite the research, he added, there is no federal support for people.

“They get a diagnosis, but that’s it.”

# data[].attributes.body
ACE-IT is a program that is run in conjunction with local University's to help youth access the trades at the high school level. This could give someone with FASD, who is great with working with their hands a chance of employment right out of high school. This would mean that they would not need to go back to school again but be working right away in a trade that they are interested in.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
"Providing students in high school the opportunity to complete grade 12 with advanced access to a "Career in Trades", by integrating the required trades training programs into their secondary school studies "
Youth Train in Trades is an industry training program for high school students. Through a the Youth Train in Trades program, students can take courses that will give them credit towards both high school graduation and towards completion of an apprenticeship or industry training program.

Youth Train in Trades programs are developed and offered as partnerships between school districts and post secondary institutions, and classes are often taught at colleges. Local employers also get involved in the development of the Youth Train in Trades programs, and students who complete these programs typically have very good success in finding employment.

Currently in School District 27, the following Youth Train in Trades programs are in place for students:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Youth Train in Trades | School District No. 27

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"Providing students in high school the opportunity to complete grade 12 with advanced access to a "Career in Trades", by integrating the required trades training programs into their secondary school studies " Youth Train in Trades is an industry training program for high school students.

# data[].attributes.body
Hosts support group and also has a key worker, counsellor for support.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Key Worker - Assisting families with FAS

support, advocacy and resources. Contact: smclaughghlin@cccdca.org or 250-392- 4489. Address: 51-S. 4th Avenue Williams Lake, BC, V2G 1J6

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
cariboo chilcotin child development centre association

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
cariboo chilcotin child development centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre Association, Williams Lake, BC, Canada

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre Association, Williams Lake, BC. The Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre provides assessment, education and assistance to children who require extra support in areas of physical, socio-emotional, communicative and cognitive development.

# data[].attributes.headline
Three Corners Health Society in Williams Lake

# data[].attributes.subject
Three Corners Health Society in Williams Lake

# data[].attributes.body
Clients who access services from the Circle of Life Program are women in their child bearing years, pregnant women or women who have recently given birth, women who have family who may be affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, and women who are at risk of drinking or doing drugs while pregnant. The Program uses the following assessment and awareness tools while working with families: genogram, cycle of life, eco gram, goal setting, developing plans, safety planning and the medicine wheel.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Circle of Life Program works in partnership with our communities to provide services that support First Nations women and their families. This program supports the development of the physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual well being of all peoples. The members we serve in this program are prenatal/postnatal mothers, children from birth to 6 years of age, older children including youth, and their families. The Circle of Life Program ensures that there is a strong emphasize on prevention and safety through all programs administered in this cluster. Please refer to Appendix H - TCHSS Lifecycle Model.

The Circle of Life Program coordinates the Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program's (CPNP), and the Circle of Life Program. The enhanced Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program's (CPNP) goal aims to improve maternal and infant health through education provided to pre-pubertal, preconception, prenatal and postnatal women. CPNP has an intensive 26 session program that aims to support, counsel and educate prenatal and postnatal mothers. The goal is to improve maternal and infant nutritional health by providing a greater depth of service to women earlier in their pregnancy and for a longer duration postpartum. The program has a particular focus on those who are facing difficult life circumstances that threaten their health and the development of their babies.

Circle of Life Program is designed to empower all First Nations Women within childbearing years in making healthier lifestyle choices and to decrease the number of alcohol and/or drug exposed births in our community. In the event that children have been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, the program works with the family to ensure that they have the supports, services and information needed to improve the quality of life of those who experience Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and their families. The program promotes this by working collaboratively with the Nursing, Holistic Wellness, and Healthy Living Programs to provide seamless service.

The Circle of Life Program offers home visits to families. This is a unique program that provides intensive case management, support and advocacy. The home visitors support the parents in building strong relationships with their children and families. In addition they provide information, teach life skills, provide advocacy, and encourage families to work toward developing and maintaining healthy lifestyle choices. This is done by connecting the families with community services, assisting and supporting them with goal setting and focusing on the families' strengths.

Maternal & Newborn Health Program
Preconception

Education is provided regarding the importance of a healthy lifestyle for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby; including information on nutrition, weight, addictions, family planning, relationships, etc. Education is offered through the schools, adult education classes, youth groups, or on a one to one basis.
Prenatal

Pregnancy testing is available for early detection of pregnancy and early referral to the doctor is encouraged.

Prenatal classes for both men and women in group and/or individual settings are offered.

Early and continuous prenatal care throughout the pregnancy to monitor both mom and fetus to ensure their well-being is promoted.

Lifestyle education and counselling about the potentially harmful effects of poor nutrition, smoking, alcohol and other substances on the fetus is provided.

Breast-feeding is promoted and education about the benefits is provided.

Post-partum

Phone contact with new Mom is initiated within 24 hours of discharge from hospital.

A home visit is carried out to all newborns within first 2 weeks of delivery.

Maternal and newborn assessments for any risk factors are conducted.

Screening for growth and development is carried out every 2 weeks until 2 months old and then monthly until 4 months old.

Support is provided and high-risk moms/families are referred to appropriate resources.

Breast-feeding is promoted and new mothers are provided with guidance and assistance as necessary.

Mom and family receive support/education as appropriate regarding care of newborn.

Family planning is reviewed.

Mom/baby are encouraged to see doctor for check-up at 10 days and 6 weeks or as requested by physician.

Mom/family receive education regarding immunizations.

Circle of Life Program
Clients who access services from the Circle of Life Program are women in their child bearing years, pregnant women or women who have recently given birth, women who have family who may be affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, and women who are at risk of drinking or doing drugs while pregnant. The Program uses the following assessment and awareness tools while working with families: genogram, cycle of life, eco gram, goal setting, developing plans, safety planning and the medicine wheel.

Client assessments and referral requests for all Circle of Life services are provided and may originate from any source including client self referral

All referrals are directed to the Circle of Life Program Manager to conduct an intake

Home visits and transportation are provided to families accessing service from the program

Pregnant mothers, fathers, family and the community are encouraged to support and encourage the birth of healthy babies.

Liaison with teachers and families to ensure awareness when educating children with FASD struggles is provided through advocacy.

Education is provided to families and community to increase knowledge of parenting, FASD, and behavioural challenges etc.

Referrals, prevention and intervention services addressing alcohol and drugs while pregnant are provided.

Mentors maintain a caseload of 10 clients per Mentor.

Participation in community awareness program is provided.

Mentors provide support to Mothers and families as they go through the process for diagnosis.

Infant and Child Home Assessment
The Circle of Life Program will administer the Infant and Child Home Assessment to Canoe Creek, Soda Creek and Williams Lake Indian Band. A Community Health Representative/Home Visitor/Community Health Nurse will make a referral to the Circle of Life Program and the Program Manager will meet with the new family. In addition, there may be times when a family may be identified as needing an infant child risk assessment completed; however, may not be in the prenatal program. The Circle of Life Program Manager will assess eligibility.

To be active in the CPNP or the Circle of Life Program

To agree to have the Infant and Child Home Assessment completed in the family home

To participate in a safety education session and complete an infant Child Safety Assessment Checklist

Safety Package Items

Must use locking straps

Cabinet and drawer swivel lock

Electrical outlet caps

Cord windup/curtain

Safe start book/education packs on cribs

Washer lock

Dryer lock

Fridge lock

Stove lock

Cabinet door and drawer lock

Foam corner protectors

Door knob covers

Baby gate

Smoke detector

Cribs for Kids/Infant and Child
The Circle of Life Program administers the Cribs for Kids Program to the Canoe Creek, Soda Creek and Williams Lake Band in collaboration with the Prenatal and Postnatal Program. This program encourages our prenatal and postnatal families to access our Cribs for Kids Program. In order to be elibible, the families need to:

Enrol in the Circle of Life Program until baby is one years of age

Be referred or self refer before baby is 3 months of age

Agree to a home visit a week after they have received the crib. (At this time the worker assesses the crib and provides crib safety education).

Agree to see the Home Visitor once a month until baby is one year of age

Agree to an Infant and Child Safety Assessment when baby reaches 3 months of age

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Circle of Life Program works in partnership with our communities to provide services that support First Nations women and their families. This program supports the development of the physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual well being of all peoples.

# data[].attributes.body
Our most vulnerable citizen are in public school full time. I thought it was important to showcase how the school district in conjunction with other agencies are trying to advocate for at risk youth.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Background

Communities That Care is a collaborative community effort to improve the health and well-being of children and youth in our community.

The work of the CTC initiative is based on data from the Prevention Needs Assessment survey, a standardized survey instrument that measures risk and protective factors of all youth from grades six through twelve. We surveyed Williams Lake youth in 2009 and again in 2015. Data from the 2009 survey was used to inform priorities for action. The 2016 survey results provide comparative data that allowed us to measure our progress.

Following the completion of our community profile 'A Place to Start' in 2010, our community initiated a number of evidence based programs focused on addressing the key priorities outlined in that document. Positive Action® was our flagship program, implemented in school classrooms, preschools, after-school programs and throughout the community via our 'Word of the Week' initiative. We also supported Roots of Empathy, the Circle of Courage initiative, school Sense of Belong initiatives, and a wide range of collaborative approaches to youth services.

Highlights of Survey Results

The survey results report provides us with a substantial amount of data that can help us understand not only the risk and protective factor profile of the population surveyed, but a range of other indicators that contribute to those factors. While we cannot claim that the programs of Communities That Care has focused on have been the sole contributor to changes in the risk and protective factors, we are confident that our collaborative work has made a substantial contribution to the shifts we see. We are very pleased to report that things ARE changing for the better for youth in our community.

Protective Factors: More kids have high levels of protection: from 60% in 2009 to 67% in 2015 (7% improvement)

Risk Factors: Fewer kids are 'high risk': from 60% in 2009 to 55% in 2015 (5% improvement)

Aboriginal Students: 9% more Aboriginal students have a high level of protection, and 9% fewer are 'high risk'

Community Domain: 5% fewer students perceive that our Community Laws and Norms are favourable to alcohol and drug use

Family Domain: There has been no significant change in the priority risk factor (Parent Attitudes to Drug and Alcohol use and Anti-Social Behaviour); however, Family Attachment and Opportunity for Family Pro-Social activities have both improved

School Domain: Low Commitment to School has improved by 9% and Academic Failure has improved by 6%. This is corroborated by improved grade to grade transition rates.

Individual/Peer Domain: Early Initiation of Anti-Social Behaviour and Early Initiation of Alcohol and Drug Use have both improved by 10%.

Depressive symptoms continue to be a concern at 38% with 50% of Grade 10 students showing this as a risk factor

20% of students don't have an adult in their life that they trust and can ask for help

Grade 8 alcohol consumption indicators are down, and Grade 8 binge drinking has dropped from 21% of students in 2009 to only 4% in 2015.

Gang involvement has dropped from 7.5% of students in 2009 to 3.5% in 2015

Moving Forward

Our community has spent several months exploring and discussing the data contained in this document. As a result of those dialogues, we have established our priorities in each domain, to continue the improvements we have seen in the past six years, to focus on some new areas, and to continue the collaborative work that has moved our community forward.
Community Domain School Domain Family Domain Individual/Peer Domain
Read the Communities that Care 2016 report by following the link below. It provides an overview of the work we've done together as a community when the initiative was launched, and 2016 when we completed our second youth survey and data scan. You'll also find a copy of our first report, "A Starting Point" published in 2010.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Communities That Care | School District No. 27

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Communities That Care is a collaborative community effort to improve the health and well-being of children and youth in our community. The work of the CTC initiative is based on data from the Prevention Needs Assessment survey, a standardized survey instrument that measures risk and protective factors of all youth from grades six through twelve.

# data[].attributes.body
This website provides support for  families and children who have been affected by FASD. There are educational articles about FASD brain differences, lists of supportive organizations and support groups. There is also FASD role models, sibling supports, Parenting tips, personal stories and strategies that may be helpful.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
By MB_FASD It's hard being a Dad to a son with FASD at this time of year. You want him to be happy, but the run up to Christmas is stressful for him, and that makes it hard for us.

# data[].attributes.body
This website is not solely focused on FASD by does provide support to families of children with disabilities, including employment options and respite care. Family Support is creating a non-judgmental place where families can find information, guidance, understanding and connections.
Our network helps to reduce isolation and loneliness by creating a space where people feel understood and are able to focus on celebrating their family members’ abilities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What Can You Expect When You Contact FSI?

- A warm welcome by our caring staff
- FSI will never say no to support your family
- Answers to your questions
- Direction to relevant services/supports or community resources
- Up-to-date & relevant information to meet your circumstance
- Connections to parents in your community to share experiences and guide you to supports

What is Family Support?

Family Support is creating a non-judgmental place where families can find information, guidance, understanding and connections.
Our network helps to reduce isolation and loneliness by creating a space where people feel understood and are able to focus on celebrating their family members' abilities

FSIBC has trained volunteer Resource Parents/Resource Family Members (RPs/RFMs) in most communities throughout British Columbia.
We will do our best to put you in touch with a volunteer in your community.

Contact our office at (604) 540-8374 and ask to be connected with an RP/RFM in your region.

Role Of A Resource Parent/Resource Family Member

A RP/RFM is a volunteer for FSIBC who has a child or family member with a disability, and has committed to volunteer for a minimum of 2 years.

Areas of RP/RFM involvement:

1:1 contact with parents/family members

Sit on Parent Advisory Committees at schools

Attend meetings with a parent/family member in need

Give presentations in their community

Facilitate workshops

Click here to view and download RP/RFM Volunteer Description

Resource Parent / Resource Family Member - Map - Where Are We In BC?

View Family Support Institute - RP/RFM Map in a larger map

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Family Support - Family Support Institute of BC

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A warm welcome by our caring staff - FSI will never say no to support your family - Answers to your questions - Direction to relevant services/supports or community resources - Up-to-date & relevant information to meet your circumstance - Connections to parents in your community to share experiences and guide you to supports Family Support is creating a non-judgmental place where families can find information, guidance, understanding and connections.

# data[].attributes.headline
Caregiver needs and stress in caring for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

# data[].attributes.subject
Caregiver needs and stress in caring for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

# data[].attributes.body
Caregivers of individuals with FASD have multiple areas of need and concern, and experience high levels of stress. Reducing demands on caregivers and providing resources may help reduce caregiver needs and stress, particularly for those caring for adolescents and adults, and those with lower incomes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Caregiver needs and stress in caring for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Individuals with FASD experience neurodevelopmental impairments and adverse outcomes, which can result in stress on the caregiver. However, there is l...

# data[].attributes.body
Providing structured and supervised activities that adolescents enjoy, will avoid opportunities for them to make poor choices. I have included this website to help parents find good fun activities to occupy their teens time. In Williams Lake there is also Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Scouts, Girl Guides and 4H clubs that are structured and supervised, and can allow for friendships to be made.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Recreation Services | Williams Lake, BC - Official Website

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Events, programs, fitness and athletics through Recreation Services

# data[].attributes.body
This is a not-for-profit organization providing a variety of services related to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other complex developmental needs.  The Centre offers assessment and diagnostic services, family and community support, education and training, research projects, resource development, and more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Disclaimer: The subject matter contained in this site does not necessarily represent the opinions and ideas of the Asante Centre or the FASD Society for BC. The Centre and the Society do not endorse or guarantee any information, products or services discussed, and cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of its contents.

# data[].attributes.body
The booklet could be used by someone who has FASD to help the teacher better understand them. This way it can be more personal as well have more information than an iEP would. The could tell them about their strengths and what doesn't work for them. Plus it could outline what to look for when they are becoming to over whelmed.

# data[].attributes.headline
6 Things Educators and School Staff Should Know About FASD

# data[].attributes.subject
6 Things Educators and School Staff Should Know About FASD

# data[].attributes.body
Children and teenagers with FASD require specific supports that are unique from other disabilities and conditions. Many educators and school personnel have not been trained on these specific needs. A student could send this video to the teacher or other staff to help with the understanding of FASD or how to better help them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
6 Things Educators and School Staff Should Know About FASD

# data[].attributes.body
Students learn the importance of safety training and receive mentoring from equipment operators as they learn to operate several different types of equipment in a controlled environment. This one sole focus is on the equipment they will be driving. This could be a good idea if they are looking to get into working for the mines or road construction business. They will work in a controlled environment with the equipment they will encounter at the worksite. Plus they can use this training on their resume when apply for like jobs.

# data[].attributes.headline
Persistence in high school: Experiences of adolescents and young adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

# data[].attributes.subject
Persistence in high school: Experiences of adolescents and young adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Thompson Rivers University Library - Library - Login to Licensed Databases

# data[].attributes.body
Scouts provide youth in communities all over Canada and the world with opportunities to explore in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
For more than 100 years, Scouts Canada has brought a world of adventure, outdoor experience, friendship and fun to 17 million Canadian youth.

Scouts have fun youth- led adventures discovering new things and experiences they wouldn't discover elsewhere. Along the way they develop into capable, confident and well-rounded individuals, better prepared for success in the world.

Scouts is the start of something great.

It starts with Scouts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For more than 100 years, Scouts Canada has brought a world of adventure, outdoor experience, friendship and fun to 17 million Canadian youth. Scouts have fun youth- led adventures discovering new things and experiences they wouldn't discover elsewhere. Along the way they develop into capable, confident and well-rounded individuals, better prepared for success in the world.

# data[].attributes.body
I feel this resources is a good fit to educate youth and families about the use, and misuse of drugs and alcohol. It explains all the different reasons for using a variety of substances.
It can also help with prevention.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Before saying "yes" or "no" to drugs and alcohol, there are a few things you may want to learn more about.

When making the decision to use (or not use) drugs and alcohol, consider the following:

* Which drugs are legal/illegal?

* Why do people use drugs and alcohol?

* What are the risks?

* What is addiction?

* What are the consequences?

Which drugs are legal?

Many drugs are legal. Some drugs, like alcohol and tobacco, are legal for adults but not for kids and teens. Others, like caffeine, are legal for everyone. Laws about these drugs vary by province. Legal drugs can have harmful effects if misused, but the amount and type of harm depends on the way someone uses the drug.

Other types of drugs are legal, including medication like pain killers and antibiotics. Medication is generally safe to use if you take it as directed by your doctor. You may also purchase medication "over the counter" at a pharmacy, like cough syrup and some pain relievers. Directions for use of these drugs can be found on the label. Taking more than the recommended dose, or mixing drugs (even legal drugs), can be dangerous. Misuse may lead to illness or addiction.

Which drugs are illegal?

Some legal drugs are sold illegally to people without prescriptions looking to use them recreationally. These can include:

* Strong pain medication: opioids like oxycodone (OxyContin, Percodan, etc.), hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, codeine, methadone, oxymorphone, Demerol (meperidine), etc.

* Anxiety and sleep disorder medication: benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam), Serax (oxazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), Rivotril (clonazepam), etc.

* Medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): stimulants like Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin (methylphenidate), Desoxyn, Dextrostat, etc.

Some drugs are produced and sold illegally. The most commonly used illegal drugs are marijuana (pot), stimulants (cocaine, crack, speed, etc.), LSD, PCP, heroin and "club drugs" (Ecstasy, etc.).

Why do people use drugs and alcohol?

There are a lot of reasons why young people may start using drugs and alcohol such as:

* curiosity

* experimentation

* celebration

* to feel good

* to lose their inhibitions (self-consciousness)

* to relieve various emotional problems (e.g. anger, stress, anxiety, boredom, depression, etc.)

* to boost confidence

* to rebel

* to help cope with traumatic experiences

* social pressure

* following a parent/caregiver's example

* for a sense of belonging or social acceptance

* to avoid rejection

* glamorization by the media

What are the risks of using drugs and alcohol?

Drug and alcohol use becomes a problem when it results in negative consequences including:

* addiction and dependency

* health problems (illness, injury, death, etc.)

* personal problems (loss of motivation, issues at work/school, etc.)

* family problems (strained relationships, family breakdown, etc.)

* social problems (increased crime, drinking and driving, etc.)

* increased risk of serious drug use later in life

* poor judgment which can increase the risk of accidents, violence and unsafe sex

* drug-related convictions which can result in a fine, prison sentence and criminal record

Some young people can experiment with drugs and alcohol, and then stop using or use occasionally, without significant problems. However, some young people can develop a dependency/addiction and move on to more dangerous drug behaviour.

This scale of risk indicates the severity of a person's drug use:

Level 1: no use
Level 2: experimental use
Level 3: social or occasional use
Level 4: medication used as directed
Level 5: harmful use
Level 6: dependence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Drugs and alcohol: Important things to know | Kids Help Phone

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When making the decision to use (or not use) drugs and alcohol, consider the following: * Which drugs are legal/illegal? * Why do people use drugs and alcohol? * What are the risks? * What is addiction? * What are the consequences? Many drugs are legal.

# data[].attributes.body
This academic journal is a thorough study out of the Simon Fraser niversity. This study shows the overwhelming prevalence of FASD in our first nations communities. I feel this is relevant considering the high number of first nations communities that surround Williams Lake.
A growing number of youth are becoming involved in gangs. We need to look at contributing factors, and how to prevent gang involvement with our FASD youth.

# data[].attributes.body
This resource is out of New ZealandI feel it's relevant because, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder doesn't discriminate. It can happen in any region, and with any ethnicity in the world.
Having resources to help better educate the helping profession, as well as our care givers will inevitably help our youth.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder - Care Action Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If I don't always do the right thing it may be because I can't, rather than I won't!
Helping me remember Helping me learn

Well explained oral and written instructions given step by step

A model or visual example

A quiet space where I can work by myself

Lots of opportunities to practise new ideas

Lots of repetition

Clear boundaries and expectations

Routines that are regular and easy to predict

Giving me specific feedback

More time to do things so I can think about things properly and not rush

Checking with me regularly and helping me think a bit more rather than expecting me to ask questions

Helping me behave

Explain to me what you expect and how you want me to act

If I get angry, let me calm down before talking to me about it

Have a safe place for me to go when I am getting angry

Having a safe adult who will help me when I need help

Visual prompts to show me what to do

Tell me about changes to the routine as soon as you can

Visual prompts to show me what to do

Tell me about changes to the routine as soon as you can

Tell my parent/caregiver before something happens so they can help me understand what is happening

Time to relieve my stress regularly

I do not do well when I am expected to manage my self, I do better when someone can support me

Tell me when I am doing things the way I should be

Sometimes I can be encouraged to do silly things by others. Please help me to know when others are not helpful to me

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
At School - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder - Care Action Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If I don't always do the right thing it may be because I can't, rather than I won't!

# data[].attributes.headline
The Effectiveness of Community Based Intervention for People with FASD.

# data[].attributes.subject
The Effectiveness of Community Based Intervention for People with FASD.

# data[].attributes.body
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Step by Step program in which mentors work with parents affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) on a one-to-one basis. Mentors help clients identify and work towards meeting their needs and achieving their goals. Data from 24 closed client ﬁles was collected and analyzed and as predicted, the program was effective in helping clients reduce their needs and achieve their goals. The client’s reason for leaving the program as well as whether or not they had a formal FASD diagnosis had an impact on their success in the program. Data collected on additional mental health issues, experience of abuse and addictions helped to characterize the sample of clients and correlations were found between client’s experience of abuse and their past and/or present addictions issues. Limitations of this study as well as future implications were also discussed.

# data[].attributes.headline
Axis Family Resources - Community Living

# data[].attributes.subject
Axis Family Resources - Community Living

# data[].attributes.body
The (CDBC) Assessment and Support Services Program, is delivered in the communities of Prince Rupert, Quesnel and Dawson Creek to children and youth from birth to 19 years old.

There are three interrelated aspects to the program; to coordinate intake and assessment for a limited number of referrals each year, to provide on-going support to families who are referred and accepted into the program, and to assist communities to build capacity to support families who have children with CDBC.

Axis’ CDBC program is part of the Northern Health Assessment Network (NHAN). NHAN provides assessment and diagnosis for children and youth living in the Northern Health Region who are experiencing Complex Developmental and Behavioural Conditions. Some examples of these conditions include Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Developmental Disorders.

A child can be assessed by first making an appointment with a family doctor to discuss concerns. If a child or youth has difficulties in areas such as development and learning, mental health behaviours, and /or adaptive and social skills a referral can be made to NHAN by a Family Physician, Paediatrician, Child Psychiatrist or a Clinical Nurse Practitioner.

Community Living Services refers to programming designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and FASD. Programs for adults are funded by Community Living BC, while programs for children and youth are funded by Ministry for Children and Family Development.  They also hold parent support groups for parents that have children with FASD.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to Axis Family Resources. Our Mission is to be the leader in the delivery of community social service while enhancing the lives of the diverse people we serve, our employees and our partners. We specialize in providing community based programs, resources and opportunities for families seeking support.