Stories of Hope
Everyone loves a good success story, and at HCI we have been fortunate to witness many. Our Stories of Hope are in-depth, inspiring personal stories from our community members and volunteers. Each story takes you on a journey – from the challenges someone faced, through their struggles, to the turning point when they found help and hope. You’ll meet people like Aarav, who hid his depression for years until HCI helped him open up and eventually seek therapy, and Sneha, who overcame an eating disorder with support from friends she met in our circle. These narratives also include accounts from our mental health experts who bravely share their own battles with conditions like anxiety or bipolar disorder. By sharing their stories openly, they prove that mental illness can affect anyone and that seeking help is not only okay, it’s life-changing. Each story of hope is a beacon for others: proof that no matter how dark it gets, there is a path to better days. Grab a cup of tea and take a moment to read these stories – we promise they’ll warm your heart and remind you that hope is real.
Mental health experts talk about their own mental illness
Dr Bharat Vatwani, A psychiatrist Who First Healed Himself.
Bharat Vatwani, a 2018 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, has spent over three decades rescuing, rehabilitating, and reuniting thousands of mentally ill individuals living on the streets with their families through Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundation.
He once went through a phase of deep depression and suicidal thoughts. There was a time he felt lost, unsure if there was anything worth living for or dreaming about.
His depression gave way to a dream : Shraddha – a place where thousands, once abandoned and forgotten, found their way back home.
Sulabha Subramaniam, a therapist herself, speaks openly about her own struggles with depressive episodes, panic attacks, and ADHD.
What makes this powerful is not just her honesty, but her choice.
Despite being a mental health professional, she doesn’t hesitate to seek therapy or take medication when needed.
Because even those who support others…sometimes need support too.
Get inspired by Psychotherapist and Psychologist Snigdha Mishra who shares her story and struggles with depression.
Therapist Pritha Saha shared her journey with deep honesty speaking about her childhood challenges, her struggles in school with ADHD, and her acceptance of living with depression.
She also openly embraces therapy and medication as part of managing her mental health.
Dr. Nilesh Shah, former HOD of Psychiatry at Sion Hospital, openly spoke about his own anxiety and panic attacks.
If one of India’s most respected psychiatrists can talk about his mental health…
why should anyone feel ashamed of depression, anxiety or bipolar?
At The Hugging Club of India, we regularly invite mental health experts to talk about their own struggles, because healing begins when stigma ends.
Members speak their heart out
Kalindi’s Story: Resilience After 32 Years of Abuse.
A close friend of mine introduced me to Mr Umang and Hugging Club Of India at a time when I was anxious, sad and confused.
The online sessions (organised by HCI) with psychiatrists , psychologists and therapist helped me gain clarity and a better perspective on life.
HCI has been a source of strength for me. It made me feel supported, valued, loved and cared for. And finally it helped me to value myself.
I am truly grateful to Mr Umang and HCI for being such a meaningful part of my life.
— Aparajita
I found the HCI space to be supportive, inclusive, and welcoming. I would recommend this group to other LGBTQ+ individuals, especially because it offers something that is increasingly rare today—a safe space to connect with like-minded people who share similar experiences. In a time when technology provides endless ways to communicate, many interactions tend to feel quick, superficial, and often judgmental. These kinds of connections rarely foster the depth or trust needed for healthy relationships or personal growth.
This group, however, creates an environment where meaningful conversations can happen. It encourages openness, understanding, and a sense of belonging, all of which are essential for mental well-being. Spaces like this play an important role in strengthening the LGBTQ+ community by bringing people together in a way that truly supports emotional health and deeper human connection.
— Amit Hiroji
Being part of HCI has been a deeply meaningful journey, reinforcing my belief in the importance of accessible mental health care.
As a member, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of compassionate support and timely intervention. This experience has strengthened my commitment to advocating for mental well-being in our communities. Over the past year, I have seen our collective efforts bring hope and healing to many individuals and families.
The HCI’s work continues to make a tangible difference by addressing both immediate needs and long-term mental health challenges. It is inspiring to see how small, consistent efforts can create lasting positive change.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of HCI that is making a meaningful difference.
— Jignesh
Before joining Hugging Club Of India I was feeling very unstable, restless, and almost devastated. But when I met Umang, I began to feel calmer and more at peace. Later, he advised me to consult a proper psychiatrist, which I did—and now I’m doing much better, truly feeling a sense of solace. Thank you, Umang.
The overall experience has been wonderful. Although I don’t attend events very often, but whenever I do, it genuinely feels like a joyful outing.
— Anonymous