Autism Assessment and Support in Jaipur

Understanding Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, relates to others and experiences the world. It is called a spectrum because it looks very different from one person to another: some autistic children do not speak, while others speak fluently but find conversation and friendships confusing.

Signs are often noticed between 12 and 24 months, although milder autism may only be recognised at school age or even in adulthood. Autism often occurs alongside ADHD, intellectual disability, anxiety, sleep problems, epilepsy or feeding difficulties, and these need attention in their own right.

Common signs and symptoms

• Not responding to their name by about 12 months
• Little eye contact, pointing or showing things to share interest
• Delayed speech, or losing words or skills the child once had
• Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
• Lining up toys, or intense interest in a few topics
• Repetitive movements such as hand-flapping, rocking or spinning
• Distress at small changes in routine
• Unusual reactions to sounds, textures, lights or food
• Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings or making friends

Causes and risk factors

• Strong genetic influence; autism often runs in families
• Differences in early brain development
• Premature birth or very low birth weight
• Older parental age and some complications in pregnancy
• Certain genetic conditions, such as fragile X syndrome

When should you see a psychiatrist?

Consider booking an appointment if these difficulties have lasted more than two weeks, keep coming back, or are affecting your work, studies, relationships or daily routine. You do not need to wait until things feel unbearable; early treatment is usually shorter and more effective.

How Dr. Surabhi Mathur makes a diagnosis

Your first consultation is an unhurried conversation about your symptoms, how long they have been present, your medical and family history, sleep, stress and any substance use. Where needed, Dr. Mathur uses standard rating scales and may suggest blood tests to rule out physical causes such as thyroid or vitamin problems. You leave with a clear explanation of what is happening and a treatment plan you have agreed to.

Treatment options

• Developmental assessment

  A detailed history of the child’s development, observation of play and interaction, and standard autism screening and diagnostic tools, with hearing and other medical checks where needed.

• Early intervention

  Speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and structured behavioural and social-communication therapy, started as early as possible, with referral to experienced therapists.

• Parent training

  Practical ways to build communication, manage meltdowns and set routines at home, because parents spend the most time with the child.

• School planning

  Guidance on choosing a school, classroom support and special education, and on the help available for autistic children.

• Treating associated problems

  Medication does not treat autism itself, but it can help with severe irritability, sleep problems, ADHD or anxiety when these are getting in the way.

How long does treatment take?

Autism is lifelong, but development keeps moving forward, and children who start therapy early often make large gains in speech, play and independence within the first year or two. Progress is reviewed regularly and the plan changes as the child grows, from early intervention to school support and, later, skills for adult life.

Why choose Dr. Surabhi Mathur in Jaipur?

• MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), Consultant Psychiatrist at Narayana Hospital
• Trained in psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Plans that combine therapy, medication and lifestyle care
• Strictly confidential, non-judgmental consultations
• Clinic in Nirman Nagar, Mon–Sat by appointment
• Hospital care at Narayana Hospital when it is needed