Frequently Asked Questions

ALPUN CARE is a non-medicinal consultation and support service designed to help individuals with physical, sensory, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. We offer expert-led emotional wellness support, behavioral guidance, and personalized consultations to empower people in their journey from recovery to rediscovery.

Our services are for everyone—from children and students with special needs to working professionals and caregivers. We support parents, families, and educational institutions seeking inclusive practices and expert advice.

Our core differentiator is our non-medicinal, personalized approach. We focus on emotional and behavioral support rather than pharmaceutical interventions. Our services are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, and we engage families, schools, and institutions in a multi-stakeholder model.

No. While we offer support through special educators and expert consultations, we are not a substitute for licensed therapy or medical intervention. When advanced support is needed, we often refer clients to partner therapy centers or special schools.

We support individuals with:

• Learning disabilities (like dyslexia)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Hearing or visual impairments
• Emotional or behavioral disorders
• Intellectual and developmental disabilities

Our consultations include:

• Initial assessment by a special educator
• Personalized strategies for education, behavior, and emotional growth
• Guidance for families and caregivers
• Referrals to trusted therapy centers or schools, if needed

Yes! We offer both in-person and virtual consultation options to ensure flexibility and accessibility for all clients.

There are many complex and interacting reasons why children may suffer from disabilities. These can be broadly categorized into factors that occur before birth (prenatal), during birth (perinatal), and after birth (postnatal). Additionally, the interplay between genetic and environmental factors is crucial.

• Genetic Factors:
  • Inherited genetic mutations: Some disabilities are directly caused by genes passed down from parents, such as in Down syndrome (though it's usually a chromosomal abnormality), cystic fibrosis, and fragile X syndrome.
  • De novo mutations: These are new genetic changes that occur spontaneously during the formation of the egg or sperm or in early embryonic development. They can contribute to conditions like some cases of autism spectrum disorder.
  • Chromosomal abnormalities: Errors in cell division can lead to an extra, missing, or altered chromosome, as seen in Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Turner syndrome.  
  • Exposure to teratogens: Substances like alcohol (causing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders), tobacco, certain medications (e.g., valproate, isotretinoin), and illicit drugs can harm the developing fetus.
  • Maternal infections: Infections like rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus (CMV), toxoplasmosis, syphilis, and Zika virus can cause various disabilities, including hearing loss, intellectual disability, and cerebral palsy.
  • Maternal chronic illnesses: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and preeclampsia can increase the risk of disabilities in the child.   
  • Maternal malnutrition: Deficiencies in essential nutrients like folic acid can lead to neural tube defects.
  • Exposure to environmental toxins: Substances like lead and mercury can negatively impact brain development.
• Perinatal Factors (Occurring During Birth):
  • Oxygen deprivation (hypoxia): Lack of oxygen to the baby's brain during birth can cause brain damage and lead to conditions like cerebral palsy.   
  • Premature birth: Babies born too early are at higher risk for various developmental disabilities due to the immaturity of their organs and brain.   
  • Low birth weight: Often associated with prematurity, low birth weight can also increase the risk of disabilities.   
  • Birth injuries: Physical trauma during delivery can sometimes lead to disabilities.   
  • Infections during birth: Some infections can be transmitted from the mother to the baby during delivery.   
  • Poor treatment during birth: Unavailability of experts or lack of necessary facilities can contribute to complications.
• Postnatal Factors (Occurring After Birth):
  • Meningitis and encephalitis: These infections of the brain and surrounding membranes can cause brain damage and lead to disabilities.
  • Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries from falls, accidents, or abuse can result in physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities.
  • Toxic exposures: Exposure to substances like lead and mercury after birth can damage the developing brain.
  • Severe or untreated jaundice: High levels of bilirubin in newborns can cause brain damage (kernicterus).  
  • Seizures and epilepsy: Some severe forms of epilepsy can lead to developmental delays or intellectual disability.   
  • Brain tumors and their treatments: Can cause neurological deficits.

Depression is a common mental health condition characterised by persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and often accompanied by other emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms. It's more than just feeling down or having a bad day; it's a prolonged state that can significantly interfere with daily life.   

Symptoms can vary from person to person but often include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood.  
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities.   
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.   
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.   
• Fatigue or lack of energy.   
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.   
• Changes in appetite or weight (loss or gain).   
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping).   
• Irritability, frustration, or restlessness.   
• Physical aches or pains without a clear cause.   
• Thoughts of death or suicide.   

Depression doesn't have a single cause, but it often results from a combination of factors, including:

• Biological factors: Differences in brain chemistry (neurotransmitters), genetics (family history), and hormonal changes can play a role.   
• Psychological factors: Negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, difficulty coping with stress, and past trauma can increase vulnerability.
• Social and environmental factors: Stressful life events (bereavement, job loss, relationship problems), lack of social support, and difficult socioeconomic circumstances can trigger or worsen depression