Olderfas is a support group and discussion list for PARENTS ONLY. We welcome family members caring for older teens with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders who are transitioning to adulthood and parents of adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. A diagnosis is not required. Most adult children with FASD never get a diagnosis, but it is still important to recognize and identify the true source of the problems faced by individuals with FASD: brain damage that results in impulsivity and poor judgment. It is by coming to terms with the realities of FASD that we can find solutions that lead to success (redefined of course).

Difficulties facing families include trouble with the law, promiscuity, unprotected and risky intimate relationships, substance abuse, joblessness, homelessness, self injury, assault, depression, and other mental health issues.

Due to the sensitive nature of FASD issues in teen and adult years, families have asked for privacy and confidentiality in discussing these problems.

Parents of younger children, helping professionals, and others interested in learning more about issues faced by families of older teens and adults with FASD are invited to read "Damaged Angels" by Bonnie Buxton: www.damagedangels.com.

If you are not a parent or mentor of an older teen or adult with FASD but wish to participate in an online discussion group, you may join FASLINK.

If you are an adult with FASD who would like to communicate with other adults with FASD, you are invited to join FASD Lane.

If you are a family member of an adult or soon-to-be adult with FASD, you are welcome to join our Olderfas mail list. Please read the guidelines for the Olderfas list.