Eye opening TED talks

December 13 2023. Written by Sahej Bhowmick

The challenges faced by marginalized communities, including legal immigrant teenagers and children of immigrants, highlight the need for systemic reform and support. These eye opening videos and speakers shed light on very different but somewhat connected elements and factors that can affect the mental health of immigrant teenagers. From the arduous process of obtaining permanent residency for legal immigrant teenagers in the United States, to guilt experienced by children of immigrants, or the lack of mental health resources in low-resource countries, these discussions underscore the significance of community, systemic reform, and support in addressing the challenges faced by immigrant kids.

1. A new way to help young people with their mental health

Tom Osborn wants more young people to have access to the mental health support they need. He discusses the lack of mental health resources in low-resource countries, particularly Kenya, and how it impacts the success and independence of young people. He highlights a community-focused model in Kenya that trains young individuals to offer evidence-based care to their peers, reducing stigma and improving well-being. Osborn emphasizes that mental health is a global issue requiring big ideas to tackle it and suggests that the model developed in Kenya could serve as a template for the rest of the world.

2. Being a Teenager as a Legal Immigrant: Life in Limbo

Ninth grader Bhumika Prem discusses her experience as a legal immigrant teenager in the United States, highlighting the restrictions and uncertainties faced by individuals like her. She emphasizes the flaws in the immigration system, particularly the arduous process of obtaining permanent residency and the unequal treatment based on country of origin. Bhumika advocates for reform and urges the audience to support legal dreamers who are still in limbo, emphasizing the power of community in creating change.

3. Why Children of Immigrants Experience Guilt - And Strategies to Cope

Sahaj Kaur Kohli explores the theme of guilt experienced by children of immigrants. She highlights the chronic sense of guilt these individuals often feel for not meeting their parents' expectations and discusses the struggle of balancing two cultures. Kohli distinguishes between healthy and unhealthy guilt and offers strategies for coping with guilt, such as questioning its source, practicing self-compassion, and accepting that it may be a lifelong emotion to navigate. She also emphasizes the need to reframe the narrative around guilt and encourages individuals to clarify their personal values and communicate with their parents about differing values. Kohli recognizes that guilt can be tied to grief, particularly in the context of deceased loved ones, and suggests seeking support and therapy to navigate these complex emotions. Ultimately, she urges individuals to sit with their guilt, identify their values, and consider what is truly important to them before making decisions.