Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part F (2025)

SHGs in rural India have helped vulnerable women develop as professional and happy individuals. The study shows Self-Help Groups can uplift rural women in Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. Structured surveys, followed by in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were done with 300 women, and 180 Self-Help Group members and 120 non members. SHG members were found to have higher self-esteem, confidence and reduction in stress in a quantitative study. SHG members showed improvement in community participation, decision making, mutual support and identity. Economic stability probably assisted psychological well-being considering the SHG's members possessed greater freedom to spend, save and contribute more income to their families. SHGs enhance self-confidence, dissolve social barriers, and provide psychosocial assistance to women, qualitative research has suggested. Numerous SHG members expressed improved social and family relationships, revealing resilience and agency. Distinction Between SHG and non-SHG Psychological Well-Being, Micro-financing, mental wellness and social development can create wealth and mental health for the society through SHGs, the study articulated. Mental health competence is an asset for megaprojects like SHG. Strengthen gender and development responses: Financial freedom, social integration, and mental wellness are important factors that increase women’s engagement in gender and development responses.