Justine Hardy

Justine Hardy, Founder of the Healing Minds Foundation, is a distinguished psychotherapist and international journalist who has devoted over 25 years to addressing the psychological impacts of conflict, particularly in South Asia and Kashmir. Her extensive experience in the region has given her a profound understanding of the mental health challenges faced by individuals affected by war, natural disasters, and other conflicts. After witnessing the severe consequences of the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, she took significant steps to rebuild schools, medical centres, and homes in the most devastated areas. This humanitarian effort inspired her to establish a mental health programme focused on alleviating the trauma experienced by the local population.

In 2008, Justine founded Healing Kashmir, an initiative that has significantly improved mental health services in the region. Her research-driven approach has led to the establishment of suicide helplines, statewide mental health care, and comprehensive training and awareness campaigns. The success of Healing Kashmir has extended its reach from the capital, Srinagar, to various outreach centres throughout the state. Justine’s pioneering work and compassionate dedication have had a transformative impact on the communities she serves.

A prolific author, Justine has written “The Wonder House”, “Bollywood Boy” and “Dust”. As a mental health keynote speaker, Justine brings her vast expertise in trauma therapy to audiences worldwide. Her presentations are enriched with practical strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of conflict on society, business, and personal life. Her journalistic career complements her therapeutic work, having authored several books that delve into topics ranging from fashion controversies to militant training camps. In addition to her writing, she gained recognition as the presenter of the 1996 BAFTA-nominated series Urban Jungle, further solidifying her reputation as a journalist.

Beyond her work in Kashmir, Justine’s contributions to mental health and rehabilitation are evident in her over 20-year association with New Bridge, a rehabilitation foundation, and her role as the Advisory Director of NGO India, which focuses on building schools in underprivileged areas. Her engaging speaking style has made her a sought-after lecturer, having spoken at events such as the NHS Confederation Conference and Tufts University. Justine’s literary achievements include over six published books, with notable titles like “Scoop-Wallah” and “The Valley of Mist”, the latter featured as BBC Radio 4’s Book of the Week. Her writings and public appearances provide deep insights into the experiences of a journalist navigating extreme environments, making her a captivating and inspirational figure in both mental health and journalism.