Chandigarh
25 January 2025
DIVYA AZAD
Mental health issues affect nearly 15% of the Indian population, yet the topic remains shrouded in stigma. ENSO, a ground-breaking start-up founded by Psychologist Shabana Azam and Theatre Personality & Art-based Mental Health expert Nisha Luthra, seeks to change this narrative.
ENSO has come up in the popular Sec 8 B market. The duo addressed a press conference at its establishment, from where ENSO will provide cutting edge services to resolve mental health issues of tricity residents.
Nisha Luthra said, “Mental health is as important as physical health. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. We will also incorporate new-age art and performance-based techniques.” Shabana Azam emphasized, “Mental health issues have assumed enormity, and it’s essential to address them.”
A Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health
It is notable that ENSO’s mission is to provide a safe, inclusive space for individuals to discuss their struggles and access holistic therapeutic interventions. The approach integrates psychological therapies with creative modalities like music, breath work, theatre, dance, art therapy, affirmations, and manifestations.
ENSO Has Plans to Tackle the Issue of Suicide
In response to a query about increasing suicides, Nisha and Shabana stated that suicide is a preventable cause of death, and they plan to tackle the issue. ENSO aims to foster emotional resilience, provide counselling services, and integrate stress-relief practices into daily life.
Founders’ Take On the Challenges Facing Young Adults
Shabana highlighted the societal shifts contributing to mental health issues in young adults, including the disintegration of joint families, increased financial independence, and social media’s pervasive influence. Nisha Luthra emphasized the pressures to excel, conform to societal expectations, and seek validation on social media. The two added that these challenges manifest as anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies in the youth.
Over Exposure to Social Media Among Youth a Major Concern:
The duo highlighted the detrimental effects of excessive screen time on young minds. Nisha said, “From social anxiety and sleep disorders to reduced attention spans and emotional immaturity, the psychological impact is profound.” Shabana noted, “The virtual world is replacing real-life interactions, leading to isolation and chronic feelings of emptiness.”
Duo unveils ENSO’s Comprehensive Strategy to address mental health issues:
The start-up shall conduct workshops in schools, colleges, corporate, and police personnel to promote mental health awareness. It will introduce innovative therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodrama, and art-based therapy. It is gearing up to provide stress management and life skills training for young adults. What’s more, ENSO shall offer group and individual therapy sessions tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
The Founders’ Bring to The Table A Rich Experience
While Shabana Azam is a highly skilled psychologist and founder of Hidayat, Home of Counselling and Therapy; Nisha Luthra is the Founder Director of The Narrators Performing Arts Society, and has played a pivotal role in introducing tricity to art and performance-based workshops for corporates, schools, and highly stressed professionals too.
In conclusion Nisha said, “ENSO’s mission is to provide a safe, inclusive space for individuals to discuss their struggles and access holistic therapeutic interventions.” Shabana said, “The approach integrates psychological therapies with creative modalities, we will also use yoga as a way to reduce mental stress and anxiety.”
