About Me — Albert Nahas
Through the Darkness to a World of Love: A Lifelong Learner’s Odyssey Toward Emotional, Mental, and Physical Well-Being.
In the Shadow of War: A Childhood in Syria
I was born under the vast Syrian skies, where the stars sparked my fascination with the universe. This early love for astronomy evolved into a quest to understand the laws of physics and later, the complex codes of computer science. My journey, however, wasn’t just about celestial wonders; it was deeply rooted in the harsh realities of life in a war-torn country.
The Turn of Fate: Family, War, and Early Responsibilities
At 21, my world turned upside down. The war in Syria not only stole the tranquility of my hometown but also thrust upon me the responsibility of being the family’s breadwinner. I stepped into the shoes of a software engineer, grappling with the weight of adulthood prematurely forced upon me.
Crossing Borders: From Lebanon to Amsterdam
My journey took me from the uncertainties of Lebanon, where I first dipped my toes into the professional world, to the sands of Dubai, and finally to the vibrant streets of Amsterdam. Each relocation wasn’t just a change of scenery but a pivotal chapter in my personal and professional growth.
The Invisible Scars: Confronting Mental Health
Amidst these external changes, an internal battle raged on — one with my own mental health. The trauma of war, the stress of uprooting my life multiple times, and the constant pressure to succeed left invisible scars. I began to realize that mental health wasn’t just a concept to read about; it was a reality I was living.
Seeking Answers: From Denial to Acceptance
At first, I was in denial. I buried myself in work, hoping the ghosts of my past would fade away. But they clung to me, manifesting in sleepless nights and an unexplainable heaviness in my heart. It wasn’t until I faced a health scare in Spain, where pain crippled my body without a physical cause, that I acknowledged the impact of my mental state on my physical well-being.
The Healing Journey: Mindfulness and Beyond
This epiphany led me down a path of healing. From the ancient practice of yoga to the meditative state of mindfulness, I explored avenues to mend my mind and body. Books like “Waking the Tiger” by Peter Levine and “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk weren’t just readings; they were my guides to understanding and embracing my trauma.
Sharing Wisdom: Writing as Therapy
As I navigated through this journey, I found solace in writing. It became my therapy, a way to process my experiences and share the lessons I’ve learned. On Medium, I aim to extend this personal healing to others. I write not just as a survivor of trauma but as an advocate for mental health awareness.
The Future Unfolds: Goals and Ambitions
Looking ahead, my goal on Medium is to be a voice for those struggling silently. I want to use my background in technology and my passion for personal development to create content that resonates, educates, and empowers.
A Personal Invitation
To my readers, I extend an invitation to join me on this journey. Let’s explore the realms of mental health, tech innovations, and the art of resilience together. Follow me here on Medium, connect with me on instagram, or checkout my podcast on Spotify.
