You are not Crazy | Hadi Alasmar | TEDxUWCEA Youth
With the first sentence revealing that the title is a lie, Hadi Alasmar shows us in this talk that we are all somehow crazy, not in the societal definition, but in our own ways. From the panic attacks because of the conflict back home to the new experiences at UWC East Africa, it all forms his new definition and experience of being Crazy. The TEDx Talk explores the power of vulnerability, particularly in mental health. The speaker challenges the negative perception of vulnerability and shares a personal story of struggling with PTSD and panic attacks after moving to a new environment. Coming from a place where mental health struggles are heavily stigmatized, they initially hid their experiences, even from their online therapist.
They emphasize that acknowledging and accepting vulnerability is the first step toward healing. Seeking support—whether from a trusted friend, peer mentor, or professional—is crucial. The talk highlights the universal stigma around mental health and encourages open conversations to break this cycle.
By embracing vulnerability, individuals can find strength, support others, and create a ripple effect of acceptance. The speaker urges the audience to take that first step, reminding them that vulnerability is not a weakness but a path to growth and resilience. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 7:56Wandering and Wondering is Still Part of the Plan | Vincy Khor | TEDxPOWIIS YouthIndecisiveness can sometimes bring better opportunities. In Vincy's case, hesitantly joining her school's LEO Club (the junior chapter of Lions Club International) in order "to enhance her curriculum vitae" has led her on a remarkable journey of growth. From student leadership roles to a corporate training internship serving Fortune 500 companies, her transformation from self-conscious to self-assured underscores the importance of taking the first step towards change.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx An alumni of Prince of Wales Island International School (POWIIS) Balik Pulau, Penang, Vincy was the founding president of the school's Soft Skills Committee and pivotally engaged in the revival of the LEO Club of POWIIS after the COVID-19 pandemic. She was the 2024 recipient of the school's Couzens Award for all-round excellence. Since graduating from secondary school, Vincy has taken a gap year which led her to an internship opportunity at a company training corporate clients from Fortune 500 companies. Embarking soon on her undergraduate studies, she believes in the power of taking the first step as embracing opportunities opens up better doors. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:21Where have All the Turtles Gone? | Hanson Chen & Hao Ran Yee | TEDxPOWIIS YouthMembers of the Prince of Wales Island International School Marine Conservation enrichment activity engaged in a year-long commitment towards research and hands-on activities to rehabilitate the coastal environment of Penang. As part of their research presentation for the school's STEM carnival, Hanson and Hao Ran shared their findings on the impact of human activity towards sea turtles and how society can help to halt their decline in numbers. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx Hanson is a student at Prince of Wales Island International School Balik Pulau, Penang. He has a strong interest in Science and joining the Marine Conservation enrichment activity has strengthened his resolve to protect the oceans.Hao Ran is a student at Prince of Wales Island International School Balik Pulau, Penang. His experience participating in the Marine Conservation enrichment activity has enhanced his interest in Science and he enjoys taking part in the various activities that are aimed at rehabilitating the seas around Penang. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx