Evaluation of employment-support services for adults with autism spectrum disorder.

The employment rate among persons with autism spectrum disorder has been noted as unacceptably low. Employment-support services are increasingly linked to the potential for favorable job outcomes, yet little is known about employment-support practices and the outcome of these interventions. This mixed-methods study examined employment-support resources for persons with autism spectrum disorder.

The science of brain and biological development: implications for mental health research, practice and policy.

Objective: This article provides a summary of the complex interaction between genetics and experience which shapes the development of neurobiological systems, particularly in the prenatal/early childhood and adolescent periods.

Method: Key factors that influence brain structure and function, and mechanisms through which experience impacts risk for mental health disorders presented in this Special Issue are linked with suggestions for future directions in child and youth mental health research, policy and practice.

Results: SUGGESTED AREAS TO APPLY EVIDENCE PRESENTED IN THIS SPECIAL ISSUE INCLUDE: enhancing research in the differential impact of psychoactive drugs on the developing brain; introducing content on brain and biological development to professional development and post-secondary curriculum; increased involvement of the family in recognition, prevention and treatment of mental health disorders; and, creation of evidenced-informed child and youth mental health policies.

Overview of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders for mental health professionals.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and related disorders such as Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) are the most common form of developmental disability and birth defects in the western world. Early recognition and accurate diagnosis by mental health professionals remains a key issue. This article reviews history, mechanisms of alcohol exposure, epidemiology, diagnosis and management of FASD.