The COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone differently. For many young women, especially women of color, it brought increased stress, anxiety, and isolation. Changes to daily life, the loss of social connections, and an uncertain future left many struggling. Women of color faced additional challenges, such as job insecurity, heightened racism, and emotional strain from prolonged lockdowns. All of these factors significantly impacted their mental health.
The Need for Mental Health Support
In many communities, particularly among Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups, discussing mental health is often difficult. It is frequently viewed as a taboo subject, and seeking therapy isn’t always encouraged. This stigma leads many women of color to face their struggles in silence. The fear of judgment or being misunderstood often prevents them from asking for help.
Her Path to Purpose set out to emphasise the importance of emotional well-being. To achieve this, we offered free professional counselling sessions to young women in need. Our goal was to create a safe space where they could heal, grow, and thrive.
What We’ve Achieved
Her Path to Purpose’s mental health program, Her Mind Matters, has made a meaningful difference in the lives of young women. Here’s how:
- Created a Safe Online Space
The pandemic left many women feeling isolated. To combat this, we introduced group therapy and one-on-one counseling sessions led by trained professionals. These sessions provided a safe environment for young women to connect, share experiences, and receive support during a challenging time. It became a nurturing space where they could express themselves and feel part of a caring community. - Encouraged Engagement
We motivated participants to explore other services, share their stories, and even volunteer within their communities. This helped foster empowerment and build a robust network of support. By staying engaged, participants grew personally and contributed to strengthening their communities. - Helped Manage COVID-19 Anxiety
The uncertainty of the pandemic heightened anxiety for many young women. News of rising infections, lockdowns, and isolation compounded their stress. To help, we provided tools and advice on managing anxiety. Our sessions offered practical skills like mindfulness techniques and strategies for coping with setbacks.
Our Impact
Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve achieved:
- Supported over 50 young women
- Provided more than 200 hours of free counseling
- Partnered with three counseling organisations
- Connected women to additional mental health services across the UK
- Reached young women in London, Birmingham, Leeds, and Manchester
Here’s some feedback from the project:
“Your program was life-changing. Last year was one of the toughest, and your support, along with the counselling sessions, helped me reach where I am today.”
“I just wanted to reach out because I feel like I’m at the point where I no longer need the group sessions. I felt that after the first cohort I had actually accomplished what I had wanted. I want to thank you so much for your time and for helping me on my journey – I really couldn’t have done it without you and the other girls.”
“Thanks so much for this email. The counselling was super helpful. Have filled out the form and look forward to keeping in touch.”
“I’ve been using your counselling session opportunities and it’s truly made a difference to my life and mindset. The fact that you’re offering these services is amazing, you’re truly making a difference to women.”
These are examples of how Her Path to Purpose has helped young women find strength, peace, and purpose.
Moving Forward
Unfortunately, like many organisations, we face funding limitations. While we continue to apply for support, these constraints mean we can’t operate the project at the same capacity as when we began.
Nevertheless, we remain deeply committed to supporting young women facing mental health challenges. We will continue to promote well-being through schools, events, and our four key pillars. If additional funding becomes available, we hope to restore the program to its full capacity.
Raising Awareness
We believe awareness is the first step toward change. Her Path to Purpose is dedicated to understanding and addressing the mental health needs of women, particularly women of color. Following this program, our founder undertook a research project to explore these issues further. This exciting initiative is ongoing, and we look forward to sharing the findings in 2025.
Through research, workshops, and specialised training, we aim to break the stigma, encourage open conversations, and ensure every young woman knows she deserves support, care, and understanding.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re struggling with mental health, remember: you’re not alone. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Here are some resources you can turn to:
- Mind: A mental health charity offering advice, support, and crisis assistance.
- Samaritans: Available 24/7 to provide support for anyone in emotional distress. Call 116 123.
- Local GP Services: Your doctor can connect you with counselling and mental health services.
- The Black, African, and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN): The UK’s largest organisation offering mental health support for Black, African, Asian, and Caribbean communities. Their online directory lists BAME counselors available locally or remotely.
- Black Minds Matter UK: A registered charity connecting Black individuals and families with free one-on-one therapy sessions delivered by accredited Black therapists.
- SANE: Offering mental health support and a helpline at 0300 304 7000