What We Do
At HCI, what we do is simple yet powerful: we create connections that heal. Every week, we organize free mental health support sessions and community gatherings that bring people together in a spirit of understanding and care. Support Groups: We host peer-led support group meetings (online via Zoom and in-person in some cities) where members share their feelings and experiences. Community Events: We also run fun social meetups every Sunday—from movie nights to park meetups—reminding everyone that joy and friendship are integral to healing. Resources & Treatment: Importantly, HCI links members with professional help when needed. We maintain a network of friendly therapists and psychiatrists for referrals, and we sponsor therapy or medication for members who need financial assistance. In a nutshell, what we do is build a caring community and bridge the gap between struggling alone and getting help. Every hug, every conversation, and every event is aimed at one goal: helping you piece your life back together.
Why We Do
Why does HCI exist? Because too many people suffer in silence. In India and around the world, mental health is often surrounded by stigma, misinformation, and shame. Many of us at HCI have personally felt the crushing loneliness of depression or the fear of speaking up about anxiety. We’ve seen friends and family hide their pain or even lose their lives because they felt they had nowhere to go. We do this to change that reality. HCI was founded to break the chains of stigma and isolation. We believe that when people have a safe space to talk—when they hear “I’ve been there too” or feel a supportive hand on their shoulder—it can make all the difference. We run HCI because every story shared and every hug given is a step toward a world where mental health struggles are met with empathy, not judgment. Ultimately, we do it because no one should have to fight their battles alone, and together, we can save lives.
How We Do
At HCI, we turn our beliefs into action every day through simple, effective practices. How we do it comes down to consistent support and community engagement:
- Weekly Healing Circles: Each week, we host guided group sessions (our “healing circles”) on Zoom and in-person. In these circles, people speak openly about their highs and lows while peers nod along in understanding. A trained facilitator (often a counselor or psychologist volunteer) gently guides the discussion to ensure everyone feels heard and safe.
- Open Ears & Open Arms: We literally and figuratively offer hugs. At in-person meetups, a warm hug or a comforting pat on the back is how we greet each other—it breaks the ice and shows that we care. Online, our “open arms” policy means we welcome everyone’s truth. No judgment, ever.
- 24/7 Support Network: Beyond meetings, our community thrives on messaging groups and phone support. Members check in on each other. If someone is having a bad day or a panic attack at 2 AM, there’s always someone available to talk or even meet up if they’re nearby.
- Professional Guidance: We aren’t a replacement for professional therapy, but we work hand-in-hand with it. HCI volunteers can help connect you to a mental health professional from our trusted network. If money is a problem, we step in to sponsor therapy sessions or medication until you’re back on your feet.
In essence, we do what we do through a blend of peer support, community love, and professional help. This three-pronged approach – talk, hug, heal – is how we see lives transformed, one day at a time.
HCI Family (Chapters)
HCI might have started in Mumbai, but today it’s a family spread across India. We have local chapters and partner groups in multiple cities and towns. Each chapter is like a mini Hugging Club of its own, led by local volunteers who carry the same passion and values. Whether you’re in Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, or any other city, there’s likely an HCI meetup happening near you – and if not, our online sessions have you covered! These chapters allow members to find support close to home: imagine a safe circle of friends right in your community, meeting up to talk or just hang out every week. All chapters stay connected to our core team, ensuring that the HCI ethos of warmth and non-judgment thrives everywhere. As the HCI family grows, we dream of opening chapters in schools, colleges, and offices too. No matter where you join us from, when you’re part of HCI, you’re part of one big, nationwide hug. Welcome to the family!
