In this episode, we sit down with Nada Koussa, psychologist, former Miss Lebanon, and Mental Health Ambassador, to explore the relationship between beauty, identity, confidence, and psychological wellbeing in the age of social media.
The conversation examines how online culture shapes self-worth, the pressure to project perfection, and the difference between genuine confidence and seeking external validation. Nada reflects on how becoming Miss Lebanon influenced her own relationship with identity and body image, and discusses the challenges of balancing a professional career in psychology with the public perception of beauty pageants.
We also explore her appointment as Mental Health Ambassador and the responsibilities that come with using public visibility to advocate for mental health. Nada shares insights into her work with Lebanon's National Mental Health Programme, the role of digital platforms in public health communication, the misconceptions surrounding mental health, and why making psychological support accessible should be considered a necessity rather than a luxury.
Finally, the discussion focuses on young people, social media, and how meaningful conversations about mental health can reach new audiences without oversimplifying complex issues.