Hyderabad teen launches app to support caregivers’ mental health

Seventeen-year-old Lasya Penumalli from Hyderabad has launched WellNest, a mental health platform for caregivers. The app, inspired by her family experiences and school outreach, will be available on Google Play and App Store in November, supporting caregivers across India

Hyderabad: A 17-year-old Lasya Penumalli from Hyderabad has launched WellNest, a mental health platform designed to support caregivers.

What began in 2022 as a series of counseling sessions in government schools has now evolved into a full-fledged organisation. Currently, in its testing phase, the app is being used by caregivers through its web version, which is accessible on any device. The app will be available for free download on Google Play and the App Store in November.

---

Lasya’s inspiration came from her own home, watching her father care for her grandfather, who was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma. Her visits to government schools deepened that awareness, as she met students balancing academics while tending to unwell family members.

“Caregivers spend their days looking after others. It’s time someone looked after them,” said Lasya, a CHIREC International School student.

Over the past year, she worked on the design and development of WellNest mobile app, turning her passion for mental health awareness into a tech-based solution for real-world impact. Since its inception, WellNest has reached over 500 individuals through its web platform, school sessions, and collaborations. The initiative has also expanded beyond Hyderabad, partnering with organisations such as the Standard Sunrise Foundation in Delhi to support caregivers across India.