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Twenty one years after losing my father, I'm still learning what grief actually is. In this episode I unpack what modern psychology gets right that the old "stages" model never did, why loss isn't only about losing a person, and why moving on was never really the goal.

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There are seasons in life when it feels as though every area of life requires attention at the same time. Deadlines, responsibilities, work, study, relationships, and future plans can create a constant sense of pressure, leaving little room to pause and reflect.

This episode explores what happens psychologically when life becomes a season of doing too much.

From cognitive load and mental overload to burnout and emotional exhaustion, the conversation examines why overwhelm often develops gradually, why functioning is not always the same as coping, and how productivity can become closely tied to self-worth.

The episode also considers the invisible weight of mental load, the challenges of navigating prolonged periods of stress, and the importance of reconnecting with purpose and values during demanding seasons of life.

If phrases such as "I'll rest after this week" or "things will calm down soon" sound familiar, this episode offers an opportunity to reflect on what may be carried beneath the surface

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Season 3 Episode 2 explores what menstrual products reveal about women’s health and society. A South African study found hormone affecting chemicals in common and organic pads raising questions about safety, affordability and transparency. We look at the psychological impact, period poverty and how knowledge can empower women to make informed choices.

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Season 3 is here.

Host Kirsten Rossouw welcomes Celeste Louw, General Operations Manager at the TEARS Foundation, for a meaningful conversation about mental health, trauma and healing in the context of gender-based violence in South Africa.

This episode explores what survivors often experience when they first reach out for help, how trauma can show up in different ways, what genuine support looks like beyond crisis moments and why the mental wellbeing of those working in trauma spaces matters too. The conversation also touches on prevention, social change and the role communities play in creating safer, more supportive environments.

Honest, compassionate and grounded in real experience, this episode invites listeners to pause, reflect and listen with care.

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In this solo episode of Mind Over Matter PsychTalks, the discussion unpacks a powerful truth: mental health is not a matter of belief or opinion. It is a lived biological and emotional reality for every human being. This episode explores how society’s obsession with opinions has blurred the line between evidence and belief and how that distortion has left many denying the existence of their own inner struggles.

From global divisions shaped by belief systems to the stigma that still surrounds therapy, the conversation dives into why denial is dangerous especially in a country like South Africa, where old thinking continues to influence attitudes. This episode serves as both a challenge and a reminder: mental health does not require belief to exist but it does require care to thrive.

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In this solo episode, I’m taking a moment to pause and reflect — on the journey of this blog, the world we’re living in, and everything in between. From celebrating recent milestones and the growth of this community, to sharing the personal highs and behind-the-scenes of building something from the ground up — this is an honest check-in on what it’s all felt like, and where things might be headed next. 

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Josh and Heidi Case- hosts of the Sober.Buzz podcast and passionate advocates for recovery and sobriety. Together, we dive deep into their personal journeys, the mission behind Sober.Buzz, and the real-life challenges and victories that come with living alcohol/ drug-free.

From honest conversations about relapse and stigma, to the importance of community and self-compassion, this episode offers raw insight and inspiring takeaways for anyone touched by addiction or curious about what a sober life can look like.

Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or just open to meaningful stories of transformation, you won't want to miss this one.

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In this episode, we sit down with Mallary Tenore Tarpley, author of Slip, to explore the complexities of eating disorder recovery. Mallary opens up about her personal journey and introduces the concept of the "middle place" — a nuanced space between recovery and relapse, where so many individuals find themselves.Through Mallary's insights, listeners gain a better understanding of the multifaceted nature of eating disorder recovery and the importance of finding compassion for oneself in the journey.

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We are thrilled to welcome Ashley Pena on the show. Ashley is the National Executive Director for Mission Connection and Vice President of Outpatient Services.

Join us in this insightful conversation, as she shares her expertise on holistic personalized care, emphasizes the importance of making mental health services accessible and discusses the role of technology such as tele-health in enhancing mental health care. 

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Join us as we speak with resident volunteer William Parker at the Buddhist Retreat Centre in Ixopo, KwaZulu-Natal. Our guest shares his personal journey and experiences at the centre and how principles of mindfulness, compassion and wisdom have transformed his life. 

 We'll explore the centers tranquil surroundings, its community driven approach and the ways in which Buddhist practices can cultivate inner peace and well-being.