New Delhi: Mental health has long been a taboo topic, with many people feeling ashamed or stigmatized for seeking help. In recent years, however, the conversation around mental health has shifted, and there is now more awareness and acceptance of the need for support. This shift has led to an increase in demand for mental health services and startups in this space.
SoulUp is a mental health startup that is revolutionizing the way we approach mental health. It was founded by two IIT alumnae, Punita Mittal and Mahak Maheshwari. They are building a platform that has been dubbed the “LinkedIn for mental health”. A Bengaluru-based early-stage startup founded in February 2022. The platform is designed to connect individuals with mental health professionals, peer support groups, and other resources to help them navigate the complex mental health landscape.
SoulUp is capitalizing on this trend by providing a unique platform for individuals to connect with others who have been through similar emotionally challenging experiences. The startup’s focus on peer-led conversations is particularly innovative, as it allows individuals to receive support from someone who truly understands what they are going through.
The platform offers a range of services, including one-on-one video conversations, group sessions, and long-running groups called StirUps. These options provide flexibility for users to choose the type of support that works best for them.
One of the key challenges of running a peer-led network is ensuring that conversations are beneficial and not triggering. SoulUp has addressed this challenge by training its peers in active listening, empathy, and other skills, as well as by setting clear expectations for callers. Feedback is also taken after each conversation to ensure that the peer is providing helpful support.
While the startup is still in its early stages, its unique approach to mental health is attracting attention from investors and users alike. Its appearance on Shark Tank India and subsequent investment from Namita Thapar is a testament to the potential of the platform.
SoulUp’s focus on mental health is particularly timely, given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health worldwide. According to a recent study, there has been a significant increase in the number of people experiencing anxiety and depression since the onset of the pandemic. This increase in demand for mental health services is likely to continue even after the pandemic subsides, making the mental health industry a promising area for startups.
Overall, SoulUp’s LinkedIn-like network for mental health is a promising innovation in the mental health space. Its unique approach to peer-led conversations, along with its commitment to user privacy and safety, makes it a standout startup in the industry. As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how SoulUp adapts and grows to meet the changing needs of its users.
