Mental Matters

Author name: Staff Writer

The Reality Check: How Social Media Affects How We Feel

Social media is not a true reflection of reality. You reach the bottom of your social media feed. Emptiness lingers. Zara, your college bestie you haven’t spoken to in years, is livin’ la vida loca on a trip. And David, your former colleague, is posting videos of him cooking something that looks like it belongs on a magazine cover. You envy them. “Here I am, just another Tuesday night on the couch,” you think, tossing your phone down. The beep of the washing machine reminds you of the three loads you still need to do. Maybe, a tiny voice whispers in your head, “Maybe I am just not doing enough with my life.” Everyone has insecurities and struggles. We just don’t typically post those on social media, right? Maybe it’s time to break free from the “like” trap and find validation in the things that truly matter – real connections and building a sense of self-worth from within. Constant comparison is the enemy of self-esteem. Here are some tips to guide you through the filtered online world and be your authentic self, without letting the likes make you like yourself any less. 1. Stop Comparing Yourself Social media is filled with false realities and highlight reels. Everyone has their messy, unfiltered moments offline. Zara’s poolside selfies might not tell the whole story. Maybe her “dream vacation” is filled with anxieties about work emails waiting for her back home. And David’s culinary masterpieces? There’s a good chance there’s a mountain of dirty dishes strategically out of frame (we’ve all been there!). 2. Be Your Own Cheerleader We all have moments of self-doubt; it’s a perfectly normal part of being human. But we need to be kinder to ourselves. How would you talk to your best friend in this situation? Would you call them a failure because of their laundry pile? Probably not! Offer yourself the same encouragement and understanding you’d give to someone you care about. 3. Curate Your Happy Place Speaking of friends, it’s okay to hit the unfollow button on accounts that leave you feeling drained. Fill your feed with positivity and inspiration. Look for people who uplift you, celebrate the real you, and share authentic experiences. 4. Take a Break Social media can be a real time suck. Set some boundaries! Try scheduling screen-free breaks, ditch the scrolling before bed, and focus on real-life activities that are good for the soul. Reach out to friends or family for a chat over coffee, or a video call. Exercise and move. Dance, jog, walk, go for a hike, crawl (maybe not) if you have to. Your body and mind will thank you. 5. Real Connections Over Likes Sure, social media can keep us connected, but it shouldn’t replace face-to-face time. Make an effort to nurture your real-life relationships. Plan a coffee date, have a game night with family or friends. Remember, genuine connections bring way more joy than a bunch of online likes. 6. Invest in Your Growth Don’t let social media be your only source of validation. Focus on personal growth and self-improvement outside the digital world. Set goals you’re excited about, pursue a hobby that makes you happy, or learn a new skill. The more you invest in yourself, the more confident you’ll feel. 7. You’ve Got This! Feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt is totally normal. If you’re struggling, know that there are people who genuinely care about you. People who will take the time to listen and help. Sharing your feelings can help you gain perspective and develop healthy coping mechanisms. 8. An Attitude of Gratitude We get caught up in our daily routines, to-do lists, and yes, even our problems (which are valid and deserve attention!). But what if we took a step back and shifted our focus towards gratitude? Practicing gratitude isn’t about ignoring our challenges. It’s about acknowledging the good alongside the not-so-good. Take a few minutes each day, whether in the morning or before bed, to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s your toddler finishing his food, your dog chewing your shoes and not the papers you forgot on the table, the plate of food that filled you up, or the bed you get to sleep in at night. Be you, unapologetically! The world doesn’t need a filtered copy of someone else. Just be yourself! Share your real experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Treatment of Cuts Treatment for Alcohol-Related Liver Disease Why A Social Media Break Is Good For You Birmingham stop smoking service Hypnotherapy Birmingham You’re Not A Loser, Social Media Just Sucks

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Start Journaling with These Simple, Feel-Good Prompts

Forget fancy apps or expensive therapy sessions for now. What if the key to unlocking a calmer, more mindful you was a simple, low-tech tool you already have? Journaling might seem old-fashioned in our digital age, but don’t underestimate its power. Here are some journaling prompts to help get you inspired: 1. Gratitude Prompts 2. Self-Awareness Prompts 3. Goal Setting and Motivation Prompts 4. Processing Difficult Emotions Prompts 5. Self-Care Prompts 6. Creativity Prompts 7. Mindfulness Prompts Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Reflect with Juliane Sandton Strong Relationships Start with Questions Healthy Ways to Deal With Anger Tips for Effective Journaling Does Journaling Actually Help?

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5 Signs You Might Be More Stressed Than You Think

Stress. It’s a part of life, right? We all juggle work, relationships, finances, and a never-ending to-do list. But sometimes, the quiet pressure builds until it’s impossible to ignore. The problem? We often miss the signs of stress until we’re on the verge of burnout. So, how do you know if you’re more stressed than you think? Here are 5 sneaky signs your body might be sending you: The Snooze Button Is Your Bestie. Hitting snooze once or twice isn’t a dealbreaker. But if you’ve become best friends with the button, consistently needing multiple snooze hits, or dragging yourself out of bed feeling exhausted despite a full night’s sleep, it’s a red flag. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt sleep cycles, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep Take action: Wind down before bed with a relaxing routine. Dim the lights, ditch screens for an hour, and unwind with a warm bath or calming tea. Reading or light breathing exercises can also help let your body know it’s time to chill. Unhealthy Cravings Rule the Day. Stress can throw your eating habits into a loop. Ever find yourself reaching for sugary treats, chips, or greasy takeout more often than usual? It’s not just you! Studies have shown a clear link between stress and our cravings for unhealthy foods [Epel et al., 2001]. These cravings might provide a temporary pick-me-up, but they won’t address the underlying stress and can lead to weight gain or digestive issues. Take action: Plan healthy meals and snacks in advance to avoid unhealthy temptations. Stock up on lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. You’re Always (or Never) Hungry. Some people turn into bottomless pits when stressed, constantly reaching for snacks or feeling like they could devour a whole meal. Others experience the complete opposite, with the mere thought of food making them feel nauseated. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes: Take action: If you notice changes in your appetite, track your eating habits for a few days. This can help you identify patterns and discuss any concerns with a doctor or registered dietician. Your Clothes Don’t Fit Quite Right. Stress can cause weight fluctuations in both directions. Some people experience stress-induced weight gain due to hormonal changes and emotional eating. Others lose weight due to changes in appetite or digestive issues. Take action: If your clothes are feeling a bit snugger or looser than usual, track your weight and eating habits. If you’re concerned about unexplained weight changes, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Everyone Seems Difficult. Feeling like everyone around you is inconsiderate or unhelpful? Stress can make us irritable and impatient, which can lead to us misinterpreting a situation or people. You might snap easily at loved ones or colleagues, creating unnecessary tension. Take action: Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation to manage your stress response. When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, take a step back and regroup before reacting. For Further Reading: Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional . Physio in Action Physiotherapist Birmingham Physio Action @ David Lloyd Leeds Back in Action Physiotherapy Cape Town Back in Action (Rehabilitation) Ltd Wakefield Psychology in Action Birmingham

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Time Flies When You Have ADHD: Practical Tips for Better Time Management

Do you ever feel like time is playing a cruel joke on you? You swear you just started that project, but somehow, an hour has vanished. This time warp experience is a common struggle for people with ADHD. ADHD is a neurological difference, not just a case of being forgetful. Here’s the science-y bit: ADHD affects the brain’s executive functions, the “boss” in charge of planning, organisation, and time management. This can make tasks that require sustained focus feel like swimming upstream. Prioritising and completing things on time may be difficult. So, what does this translate to in daily life? Imagine: These challenges can make time management a real struggle. But the good news is, there are plenty of strategies and tools to help you work with your brain’s natural wiring. Taming the Time Monster: Practical Tips Here are some practical tips to help you manage your time effectively with ADHD: Break Down the Big Stuff Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps with clear deadlines. This creates a roadmap and reduces anxiety. Think of it like chopping a giant pizza into bite-sized pieces – much easier to handle, right? Develop a Daily or Weekly Schedule Incorporate work, personal time, breaks, and relaxation into your schedule. Use a planner, calendar app, or bullet journal to visualize your day and track progress. Treat your schedule like your best friend, guiding you through the day’s adventures. Realistic Goals, Happy Brain Unrealistic goals can lead to discouragement. Set achievable goals and reward yourself for completing them. Celebrate the wins, big or small! Your brain thrives on positive reinforcement. Silence the Sirens of Distraction Find a quiet workspace free from clutter and distractions. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or apps that block social media. This creates a focused zone where you can conquer your tasks. Tech to the Rescue There are many tools available to help you stay organised: Remember, Progress Over Perfection Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Focus on making consistent progress, and celebrate small victories. Every step forward is a win! Here are some bonus tips: By implementing these strategies and tools, you can effectively manage your time with ADHD. Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Occupational Therapist Rondebosch ADHD Tools, Books & Apps for Daily Life The Best and Worst Mental Health Tips People Received General Practitioner Johannesburg The Flying Physios- St Albans. Clinic Physiotherapy & Osteopathy

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Why Small Talk Can Be a Struggle for Autistic People

Small talk. It’s the glue that holds our social interactions together. Whether it’s chatting about the weather, exchanging pleasantries with colleagues, or making small talk with a stranger at a party, these brief conversations help us connect. But for many autistic people, small talk can be a real challenge. This often leads to misunderstandings where others might perceive them as aloof, rude, or disinterested. Let’s dive into why small talk can be so tough for autistic individuals and how we can all be a bit more understanding. 1. The Nature of Small Talk Small talk is all about light, casual conversation. It’s those everyday topics like the weather, sports, or weekend plans. These conversations are usually spontaneous and rely a lot on social cues and body language. 2. The Challenges for Autistic People 3. Misinterpretations and Misunderstandings When autistic individuals struggle with small talk, it’s easy for others to misinterpret their behaviour. Here are some common misconceptions: 4. Fostering Understanding and Inclusivity To create a more inclusive environment, it’s important to approach interactions with autistic individuals with empathy and understanding. Here are some tips: Small talk can be a significant hurdle for many autistic individuals, often leading to misunderstandings. By building empathy and understanding, we can create more inclusive spaces for everyone. It’s important to remember that while small talk is a common social practice, it’s not the only way to connect with others. By valuing different communication styles, we can foster stronger relationships and a more accepting society. Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Challenges and Opportunities for Autistic Adults in SA Therapy and Support for Autism Working Conversations Group – Psychological Therapies Liverpool Living with Autism Durban Marriage & Couples Counselling Counselor Musgrave

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Crisis and Support Helplines in South Africa

Did you know, 1 in 3 South Africans struggle with their mental health? We all know mental health matters, but taking that first step is never easy. We worry about how it will affect our relationships, work, what others would say and think — as if we need permission from the rest of the world to not feel okay. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with reaching out for help. Below, we’ve compiled a list of crisis and support helplines in South Africa. 1. Feeling overwhelmed or just need to chat? 2. Facing a specific challenge? 3. In a crisis? Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Daily Steps to Manage Depression Get In Touch Mental Health Helplines in South Africa Getting Urgent Help for Mental Health in South Africa Suicide Prevention Support

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Misconceptions About Depression

Depression is a topic that affects so many of us, either directly or through loved ones. Yet, there are many myths and misunderstandings that surround it. Let’s explore some of these misconceptions. Myth 1: Depression is Just Extreme Sadness Sure, sadness is part of it, but depression goes deeper. It affects your whole life—your thoughts, actions, and even your body. It’s not something you can just shake off with positive vibes. Myth 2: People Should Just Snap Out of It If only it were that easy! Depression is a real medical condition that often needs professional help—therapy, meds, or both. It’s not about willpower; it’s about getting the right support. Myth 3: Depression Always Has a Clear Cause Sometimes there’s a clear cause for depression, like a loss or a big change. But often, there’s no single reason. It can be a mix of things like family history, brain chemistry, and life experiences. It can be confusing and frustrating. Myth 4: Talking About Depression Makes It Worse Actually, talking can be a huge relief. Opening up to someone you trust—a colleague, family member, your partner—can lighten the load. Keeping feelings bottled up is more likely to make things worse. Myth 5: “Antidepressants Change Your Personality” There’s a lot of fear around these medications. They’re not magic happy pills, but they can help balance chemicals in your brain that might be off-balance. They don’t change who you are; they can actually help you feel more like yourself again. Talk to a doctor about any concerns you have. Myth 6: “Only Adults Get Depressed” Depression doesn’t care how old you are. Kids, teens, adults—anyone can be affected. It might look different, but it’s just as real. It’s important to be aware of the signs so we can help young people who might be going through it. Myth 7: You Can Always Tell If Someone is Depressed Not always. Some people hide it well, putting on a brave face in public while struggling inside. Don’t assume everything’s okay just because someone looks fine on the outside. Myth 8: Depression Means You’re Weak Absolutely not! Dealing with depression takes strength and courage. It’s about facing challenges head-on and seeking help when you need it. That’s anything but weak. Why This Matters Understanding these myths can help us create a more supportive environment for people with depression. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, reach out. There is hope, and there is help. Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. What Are the Myths and What’s the Truth About ADHD? Common Myths About PTSD The Hypnotherapist Johannesburg Edenburg Working With – Not Against – My Depression Clinical Depression in Adults

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What Causes Anger

What causes anger? Picture this: it’s a typical workday – tight deadlines, overflowing inboxes, and endless meetings. You’ve been working on an important project for weeks, pouring your time and energy into it. As you get closer to the deadline, you find out that a crucial piece of information, essential for the project’s success, has been overlooked by a colleague. The immediate reaction? Frustration and anger start bubbling within you. Thoughts like “How could they miss this?” and “Now I have to fix everything!” consume your mind. You feel the heat rising, your heart pounding, and the temptation to vent your frustration in a less-than-ideal way begins to take over. What is anger? Anger is a powerful emotion that can feel uncontrollable at times. But where does this anger come from? What causes anger? And most importantly, how can we manage it? Dr. Sarah Thomas, a licensed psychotherapist specialising in anger management says, “Anger is a natural human emotion that evolved as a protective mechanism. However, when it becomes overwhelming or difficult to control, it can significantly impact our lives.” According to research in fields like psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology, this seemingly “irrational outburst” actually has some very logical roots buried deep in our evolution and wired into our brains. Causes of anger: The evolutionary roots of anger Anger is a deeply rooted evolutionary feature, a legacy from our caveman days, when anger meant the difference between lunch and becoming lunch. Imagine our ancient relatives hunting for berries. When out of nowhere, a saber-tooth squirrel grabs the fruits you worked hard to find. Your body instantly goes into fight-or-flight mode, pumping adrenaline and cortisol. Muscles tighten, heart races, and anger takes over. This quick, automatic reaction helped them survive in a world where every day was a fight for resources. Fast forward a few million years, and we’re still carrying around this anger toolkit, even though the threats are a bit different (okay, a lot different – unless you’re facing a particularly aggressive squirrel). Now, it might be a rude email from your boss, a long queue, or someone taking the last donut (the horror!). While these situations don’t require saber-tooth-level aggression, our bodies still react in the same way, preparing us for a fight that rarely happens. Causes of Anger: Psychological factors Anger isn’t just about snapping—it’s more complex than that. Here’s a look at some of the psychological factors that can fuel our fire: The bottom line? Understanding these psychological factors can help us manage anger before it takes control. Causes of Anger: Physiological factors The brain has two parts that work together, helping you navigate emotions, especially when it comes to dealing with anger. Meanwhile, your body jumps into action by releasing chemicals like adrenaline and cortisol, giving you a quick energy boost. And inflammatory markers, usually linked to physical injuries, can also get stirred up when you’re angry, making you feel even hotter under the collar. Additionally, research highlights: Even though anger is a normal and sometimes helpful feeling, how we express it really matters. Knowing the mix of things that cause anger can help us deal with it better. This way, we can avoid it causing problems in our personal and work lives. Ways to manage anger While Mental Matters offers information and support for mental well-being, we are not a substitute for professional help. If you have any questions or concerns about your mental health, please always consult a qualified therapist or mental health professional. They can provide you with personalised guidance and support. Anger and Stress Management Centre Durban North Anger and Stress Management Centre Sandton Anger and Stress Management Durban South Anger and Stress Management Cape Town Anger and Stress Management Centre Alberton

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Healthy Ways to Deal With Anger

Let’s face it, life’s never going to be “frustration-free”. We’ll always have those WTF moments where the alarm failed to go off, you’re 15 minutes late, drinking cold coffee in the car while stuck in traffic. If only we could hit the reset button to resolve all those frustrations, right? But since life isn’t as simple as hitting Ctrl+Alt+Delete, let’s explore some genuinely healthy ways to deal with anger before it consumes you. 1. Talk it Out Holding onto anger is like shaking a bottle of gas cooldrink – eventually, it’s going to explode. Talk about what happened, how it made you feel, even if it’s just to yourself. Sometimes, just unpacking the situation can ease the pressure. If you need a sounding board, vent to someone you trust – a friend, family member, therapist. And find your safe space. Maybe it’s a park bench, a quiet corner at home, or even the shower. Wherever you can relax and let your anger out without worrying about being judged. 2. Write It Out Grab a pen and paper and let it all out! Write down anything and everything that’s making you angry. Don’t worry about making sense, just get it out of your system.Once you’ve written it down, you can rip it up, crumple it up, or even burn it symbolically. This is believed to help you physically release the anger. 3. Get Moving Exercise is a great way to burn off stress and anger. Go for a run, hit the gym, or dance around your room. Anything that gets your body moving can help. Being in nature can also help you calm down and feel more at peace. Go for a walk in the park, sit by a river, or spend time in your garden. Do something you enjoy, whether it’s reading, playing games, or listening to music. Taking some time for yourself can help you take your mind off your anger and relax. 4. Deep Breathing When things get heated, pause and take a deep breath in. Imagine calm coming in and frustration going out as you exhale. Repeat until you feel more relaxed. It’s a simple way to ease the tension. Just breathe, and let the stress fade away. Another alternative is progressive relaxation, which is also really helpful for when tension creeps in. Tense up one muscle group, then release it with a slow exhale. Move through different areas, letting go of the stress as you breathe out. For a mental escape, apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditations for anger management. Remember to check the app stores for the latest information, user reviews, and updates to find the best fit for your mental well-being goals. 5. Think Before You Act Reframe the situation: Ask yourself, is this really worth getting worked up about? Challenge your negative thoughts and find a more balanced perspective. Can you crack a joke about the situation, even if it’s a cheesy one? Sometimes laughter is the best medicine. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to feel angry at times. But suppressing our emotions is unhealthy. We need to accept that anger is a natural human experience. However, we also need to adopt healthy ways to deal with our anger. Fortunately, practise makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if your anger gets the better of you sometimes. You’ve got this! If your anger is really bothering you or affecting your relationships, don’t be afraid to ask for professional help. A therapist can give you more tools and support to deal with it. While Mental Matters offers information and support for mental well-being, we are not a substitute for professional help. If you have any questions or concerns about your mental health, please always consult a qualified therapist or mental health professional. They can provide you with personalised guidance and support. Anger and Stress Management Centre Sandton Anger and Stress Management Cape Town Anger and Stress Management Centre Alberton Anger and Stress Management Centre Durban North Anger and Stress Management Durban South

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8 Reminders That Pulled Me Through My Worst Days

Doubting my worth is something I’ve become all too familiar with. Maybe it’s because the world makes us feel like we always need to do more or have more to be enough. Maybe it’s from people who’ve made me question myself. Or maybe it’s just those days when I’m not feeling great about who I am. It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind while everyone else seems to have it all together. To push back against these feelings, I started using affirmations—or “sentences of the day,” as I prefer to call them. The term “affirmations” felt a bit too formal and rigid for me. Here are the 8 affirmations that helped me during those times of self-doubt: 1. I’m always growing, and that’s totally fine. Progress isn’t always pretty. Sometimes it’s just about getting through the day and knowing that’s enough. We’re all just figuring this adulting thing out as we go. 2. When life throws curveballs my way, I’ll swing for the fences. Life doesn’t always go as planned, but it’s in those messy moments that we find out how strong we really are. Even when things don’t work out, I know I’m still standing. 3. I can do anything, and every day is a chance to get better. Some days, just getting out of bed is a win. Whether it’s tackling a tough task or just making it through, I remind myself that every little effort counts. 4. When things get tough, I know something good will happen soon. It’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t go my way, but I try to keep in mind that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Something better might be just around the corner. 5. My past doesn’t define me; I’m in charge of my life now. We all have moments we’re not proud of, but those don’t define who I am today. I’m focused on the present and what I can do now to create the future I want. 6. I’m special just as I am, and that’s my superpower. I’m not perfect, and that’s okay. My quirks and imperfections make me unique, and that’s what makes me, me. I don’t have to fit into anyone else’s mold. 7. Good vibes come to me, and I spread kindness to myself and others. I try to remind myself to be kind—not just to others, but to me too. Whether it’s taking a moment to breathe or giving myself a break, I deserve the same kindness I show others. 8. Even small steps forward are victories. Progress doesn’t always mean giant leaps. Sometimes it’s the tiny, almost invisible steps that matter most. They’re proof that I’m moving forward, even if it doesn’t always feel that way. I began with a list of 50 affirmations, narrowed it down to 20, and finally settled on just 8. Each morning, I’d read these simple statements, and at night, I’d reflect on them. They became my daily reminders that I’m enough, just as I am. Remember, these affirmations aren’t about being perfect. They’re about reminding yourself that you’re enough, just as you are. Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Was It Me, or Him? Lessons Learned After a Short Relationship Mr Tim Fleming Dentist Durham How to Stay in Control When Someone’s Pushing Your Buttons Beach House Chiropractic Worthing Healing: 5 Books Worth Reading

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