‘Let It Out’: A space in Chandigarh to simply speak your mind

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Global Shapers Chandigarh initiative creates a safe, informal, no-judgement setting to discuss emotions, everyday struggles and mental well-being

Chandigarh, September 20

In a city where conversations increasingly happen through screens, ‘Let It Out’ is creating space for something simpler, i.e., people sitting together and talking without the fear of being judged.

Launched by the Global Shapers Chandigarh hub, the initiative offers a safe, informal setting where people can express emotions, discuss personal challenges and build meaningful connections.

The idea comes at a time when screen time and digital communication are increasingly replacing face-to-face conversations. Rather than positioning itself as formal therapy or diagnosis, the programme seeks to make conversations around mental well-being easier and more approachable.

Discussing the initiative, Project lead and therapist Vandana Walia said it grew from her professional experience in psychology and her return to Chandigarh after spending around a decade abroad. She wanted to bring together her interest in mental health, volunteering and community engagement.

The programme began with online sessions, including one held in January, before moving to a more structured in-person format. Sessions now include art therapy and guided exercises to help participants communicate and express themselves more comfortably.

Professional therapists are present to moderate the sessions and maintain a safe environment, although the programme is not intended as a substitute for formal clinical therapy. Instead, organisers see it as a possible first step for those who may hesitate to seek professional support.

Participants include young adults dealing with career uncertainty, loneliness and what is often described as a “quarter-life crisis”, along with people facing challenges related to employment, relationships, parenting and everyday life.

For those who move away from home for education or work, building a close support network can take time. ‘Let It Out’ aims to help participants meet others, share experiences and develop practical ways of coping with everyday challenges.

To keep the sessions approachable, organisers avoid creating a formal clinical setting and use simple psychological exercises and activities to help participants overcome initial hesitation.

The initiative is also extending its community engagement beyond mental well-being, with organisers planning to participate in a climate walk on October 2 and work on a larger flagship project expected in December or January.

At its heart, however, ‘Let It Out’ remains about creating a little more room for honest conversation: A place where people can speak, listen and feel less alone.