Ever got that feeling when you feel so alone and think that no one could get what you are going through? SoulUp is here to take that feeling away. This wellness company founded by Mahak Maheshwari and Punita Mittal in the year 2021 offers unique solutions to emotional problems.
Founders’ Story
It was when the founders faced mental health issues themselves, they decided to make help and support extremely accessible. Mahak’s journey began at IIT Bombay. Later, she embarked on a corporate career with Bain & Company, where she honed her skills in consulting. After nearly a year and a half, she decided to leave her stable job to pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions, eager to start her own venture.
Punita was diagnosed with post-partum depression. At a time when she really needed somebody to share it with, she found it difficult to find genuine support. A biochemical engineer from IIT-Delhi, with 12+ years of experience in the healthcare space, she decided to take matters into her own hands with the launch of SoulUp.
“There are multiple reasons for building SoulUp. The market is divided into a therapist-centric model or content-led solutions. In some cases, platforms offer hybrid solutions. After a lot of research, we are focusing on building across the curve—where a lot of issues don’t require therapists but just peer intelligence,” she says.
Changing how you solve life’s problems
The company helps users find others who understand firsthand. One can either book a peer call or join a support group. This innovative approach focused on providing a space where individuals could share their experiences and receive support from others who understood their challenges.
Peer conversations are charged around Rs 199 to Rs 399 per session, and half of the fees are shared with the peers. Group conversations begin at Rs 1,000 for monthly-based subscriptions. Most of the users come organically through Instagram and LinkedIn.
There is also a plethora of tests available on impact of Bipolar Disorder, Narcissistic Abuse, PTSD/Trauma that help diagnose a problem one is going through. To maintain the quality and safety of its services, SoulUp has a rigorous verification process for its peers. Applicants must share their experiences and undergo training to ensure they can provide effective support. This commitment to quality helps build trust within the community. Peers on the platform are trained by the Hank Nunn Institute in Bengaluru.
Recognition and success
The company appeared in the Season 2 of Shark Tank India and successfully pitched their idea to the sharks. They won a deal of ₹50 lakhs from investor Namita Thapar for a 5% stake in the company. This investment was a significant boost, validating their concept and providing the resources needed for growth.
A startup of such kind is especially relevant in today’s times. With the help of latest technology, it is imperative to make mental health solutions easily accessible and affordable. Going forward, Maheswari and Mittal are looking at iterations to their product offering and expanding their peer network to 10,000 peers in a year and a half.
Also Read: InnerGize: Revolutionizing Mental Health in India with Wearable Technology
