This disorder is far more common in children and adolescents than is typically acknowledged. It is a disorder characterized by a depressed mood most of the time. Adolescents and adults often present as being irritable. Other signs of depression include a loss of interest in activities, sleeping too much, losing or gaining weight, feelings of low self-worth and self-esteem, and difficulties concentrating and paying attention may also be seen. People with FAS/ARND (especially if undiagnosed) are particularly susceptible to feelings of low self-worth and self-esteem because of their disabilities. They may blame themselves for their disability-related problems, not knowing what is wrong. Adolescents and adults with depression may be aggressive and angry. Suicidal thoughts and attempts can also occur.
This is a serious disorder that can occur throughout life and can be related to losses in the person’s life. It may also have a generic component in how much at risk a person is to experience depression. There are many types of medication available to treat depression. Psychotherapy can also be useful. A psychologist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health professional should make this diagnosis (LaDue, n.d., 198f.) In a large (n=415) clinical sample, 42% of the teenagers and 52% of the adults with FAS/FAE were reported to have depression problems (Streissguth, Barr, Kogan, & Bookstein, 1996, 35).