New — Take a 360° Virtual Tour of our centre. Explore every space before you visit.

Mental health treatment

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD), is a pervasive neurological developmental disability that hampers normal brain development. It affects speech and nonverbal communication, social skills, cognition, and behavior. Roughly three million people live with ASD in India. Autism is known as a spectrum disorder as its symptoms and characteristics appear in a variety of combinations that affect people in different ways.

There is a wide range of severity of Autism. Each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. Different people with ASD disorder are observed to have a wide range of IQs. Some people with ASD do not use any verbal forms of communication, whereas some are highly verbal and conversational.

What to look for

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Symptoms and Early Signs

01

Early Indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • Lack of eye contact
  • Limited babbling or vocalisation
  • No response to name by 12 months
  • Absence of gestures (pointing, waving)
02

Social Communication Challenges

  • Difficulty understanding nonverbal cues
  • Challenges in friendships and relationships
  • Lack of shared interests or enjoyment
03

Developmental Progress and Challenges

  • Uneven skills
  • Co-occurring conditions
  • Minimal support needed with interventions

Meet the clinicians

Our Professionals

View all professionals
Dr. Arun Kumar

Psychiatrist

Dr. Arun Kumar

Consultant Psychiatrist

15 years of experience

Treats: Schizophrenia, Alcohol Dependence, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Drug Addiction, OCD, Personality Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dementia, SLD

View profile
Dr. R. Priya Raghavan

Psychiatrist

Dr. R. Priya Raghavan

Consultant Psychiatrist

21 years of experience

Treats: SLD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dementia, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Drug Addiction

View profile
Dr. Vishal Kasal

Psychiatrist

Dr. Vishal Kasal

Consultant Psychiatrist

15 years of experience

Treats: Drug Addiction, Alcohol Dependence, Dementia, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder

View profile
Dr. Keerthi Sagar

Psychiatrist

Dr. Keerthi Sagar

Consultant Psychiatrist

7 years of experience

Treats: Depression, Schizophernia, Alcohol Dependence, Bipolar Disorder Drug Addiction, OCD, Personality Disorder

View profile
Dr. B. R. Madhukar

Psychiatrist

Dr. B. R. Madhukar

Medical Director

25 years of experience

Treats: Alcohol Dependence, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Schizophrenia, Drug Addiction, Personality Disorder, OCD

View profile

Why it happens

What are the Main Causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors. Several risk elements contribute to the development of ASD:

  • Genetic Factors: Mutations in certain genes have been linked to ASD, suggesting a strong hereditary component. A family history of ASD increases the risk.
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to specific medications, pollutants, or infections during pregnancy has been linked to a heightened risk of autism spectrum disorder symptoms.
  • Brain Structure and Connectivity: Differences in certain areas of the brain and how neurons communicate can contribute to autism symptoms.
  • Pregnancy and Birth Complications: Premature birth, low birth weight, and complications during pregnancy or delivery may increase ASD risk.
  • Advanced Parental Age: Children born to older parents have a higher risk of ASD.

Early identification of reasons for autism can aid in prompt diagnosis and personalised intervention strategies.

Free resource

Autism Spectrum Disorder Recovery Guide

Understand the various aspects of this condition

Download now

How it presents

What are the Different Types of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism was once classified into multiple subtypes—such as Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified)—based on specific patterns of symptoms and development. However, these distinctions have been consolidated into a single diagnosis known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), acknowledging the diverse array of autism symptoms and levels of ability within the spectrum.

01

Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of autism that typically involves challenges with social interaction and understanding nonverbal cues, along with a strong preference for routines and highly focused interests. However, unlike other forms of ASD, individuals with Asperger's typically do not have significant delays in language or cognitive development.

02

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS)

PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified) was a term once used for individuals who showed some characteristics of autism or Asperger’s, but didn’t meet the full diagnostic criteria for either condition. This category is used for those with significant social and communication challenges that don’t fully align with the definitions of other conditions on the spectrum.

03

Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism)

Classic Autism, known as Autistic Disorder, involves marked impairments in social interaction, communication challenges, and a tendency towards repetitive behaviours and interests. This form of autism is usually identified in early childhood and includes a wide range of functional levels, from severely affected to high-functioning individuals.

04

Disintegrative Condition in Children

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is a rare condition characterised by late onset (typically after three years of age) of developmental delays in language, motor skills, and social function. Children with this disorder show normal development initially and then a significant loss of previously acquired skills.

05

Rett Syndrome

Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurological disorder that occurs almost exclusively in girls. It leads to severe impairments, affecting nearly every aspect of the child's life: their ability to speak, walk, eat, and even breathe easily. The disorder's progression includes a period of regression followed by recovery or stabilisation.

Toward a Brighter Future with Autism Spectrum Disorder: How Cadabams Can Help

Embark on a journey toward a brighter future with Autism Spectrum Disorder through Cadabam's comprehensive support and interventions. Cadabam's is renowned for its multidisciplinary team of specialists, including therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and educators, who collaboratively create tailored intervention plans. The centre embraces cutting-edge therapies and innovative strategies for addressing the challenges faced by people with ASD. With a strong focus on enhancing communication, social skills, and behavioural development, Cadabam's commits to improving the quality of life and independence of those it serves.

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Rehabilitation Centre can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 33+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage autism spectrum disorder. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.

Podcast & video

Listen to our expert insights

Episode 7

Why Everyone Thinks They Have ADHD Today

Read more

Episode 6

Sleep Isn’t Optional: The Science, Myths & Dangers of Poor Sleep

Read more

Good to know

How is Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder involves a comprehensive evaluation by specialists, including developmental paediatricians, psychiatrists, and psychologists. This process includes observing behaviour, assessing social and communication skills, and reviewing developmental history. Autism diagnosis may also involve cognitive and language assessments to understand the individual's strengths and challenges, providing a basis for tailored support and interventions. Recognising autism symptoms early improves access to effective autism spectrum disorder treatment.

Good to know

What are the Risk Factors of ASD?

Risk factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder include genetic predispositions, such as family history of ASD, environmental factors like prenatal exposure to toxins, and biological aspects, including advanced parental age at the time of conception. Premature birth and low birth weight have also been identified as contributing factors.

Recognising these reasons for autism can aid in the prompt identification and intervention.

Good to know

When Should You See a Doctor for Autism Symptoms?

It's advisable to consult a doctor if a child shows delayed speech or social milestones, lacks eye contact, engages in repetitive behaviours, or has a regression in developmental skills. Seeking early consultation can result in early autism diagnosis and intervention, which are critical for improving outcomes and support for individuals with ASD. A doctor can conduct detailed developmental assessments, identify autism symptoms accurately, and guide families toward appropriate autism spectrum disorder treatment​ and Autism therapy options.

How we help

Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment and Rehabilitation

Treatment for ASD is personalised, focusing on improving communication and social skills and reducing behavioural challenges. It may include behavioural therapy, speech and occupational therapy, and educational support. As a result, autism medications can be prescribed for associated symptoms such as anxiety or ADHD. Rehabilitation for autism aims to enhance functioning and independence, relying on a multidisciplinary approach to cater to the diverse needs of individuals with ASD. The question is, can autism be cured​ completely? Remains uncertain whether early and consistent therapies significantly improve the quality of life.

Emergency service

Find nearest mental health center now

Call now · +91 9611194949

Why Choose Cadabams for Autism Spectrum Disorder?

  • Decades of Expertise

    33+ years of focused mental healthcare, shaped by 1000+ real patient journeys.

  • Dedicated Care Centres

    State of the art mental health centres built for treatment and recovery.

  • Multidisciplinary Care Team

    A coordinated team of psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, and rehabilitation specialists supporting your care.

  • Experience Across Stages

    Support from early signs through treatment and recovery.

  • Structured Care Model

    Treatment guided by clear plans that continue beyond diagnosis.

  • Continuity of Care

    Planned follow ups and continued guidance to help maintain progress over time.

Inside our centres

Facilities & amenities

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Patient journeys

Case studies

Voices of recovery

What families tell us

I did not even know Autism was a disorder. But, when the psychiatrist diagnosed my son with ASD, it was terrifying. There are very few good mental health centers in North India. We had to search across the country and we finally discovered Cadabams. They helped my son so much.

Jackson Pakh

My younger brother had ASD. It was distressing to see him struggle everyday. But, Cadabams helped him navigate the stress of everyday life and helped him grow as a person. He is now able to fully enjoy life and realize his potential.

Rishikesh Verma

My son is so brilliant but he has faced so many difficulties. Autism made it very difficult for him to interact with others. Cadabam's helped him cope with ASD better and helped us as a family meet more families who were going through the same. It is such a wonderful support system. Thank you Cadabams.

Sandesh Sharma

Further reading

Blogs you may be interested in

Visit the blog

Care pathways

Explore Autism Spectrum Disorder services

Helpline at your fingertips

+91 9611194949
Call now