Have you ever felt disconnected from yourself or others, or struggled with an issue you couldn’t openly discuss? Independent film maker Odette van Rensburg highlights the difficulties and rewards of making documentaries on taboo issues like suicide, suicide ideation and unexpected forms of domestic violence. Thought-provoking films like ‘Disconnected’ and ‘A Shell of Herself’ challenge us to look beyond others’ masks, confront our own feelings, and establish stronger connections. Sensitive content, intended for adults: suicide and domestic violence are discussed.

Society has a narrow lens when it comes to autism, writes the mom of a nine-year-old diagnosed with high-functioning autism. “Many find it easier to label a little boy than to challenge their own biases and become better, more inclusive adults. And so, they never get to know the kind, gentle, snuggly, clever little boy that I get to call my son.” Read social worker Mariette Cawood’s moving letter – “not a story of pity, but a call for awareness.”

Is being stuck a hellhole of despair or a friend enabling our growth? Psychotherapist and coach Dr Julia Kukard explains why stuckness indicates a disconnect between our inner and outer world, 3 losses we suffer and can recover, and the 5 stages of the stuckness cycle. Citing memorable case studies, she invites us to get stuck often - and develop the skills to recover quickly. Sponsored content.

Having a loved one diagnosed with dementia causes great distress. Social worker Welma Geldenhuys from ADASA discusses the symptoms of this progressive, incurable illness, its causes and 7 stages, and whether dementia is a normal part of ageing. She offers guidelines for communicating with individuals with dementia, creating a safe environment, and caring for the carer.

Do you trust your emotions? Social worker Annette de la Porte explains how Emotional Logic provides a visual map for understanding our emotions. By reframing unpleasant emotions as indicators of a violation of our values, we are able to process our pain. Emotional Logic is a coaching process taking individuals and groups from confusion to clarity. Sponsored content.

The hormonal changes menopause brings can upset women physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. These challenges are more easily met from a place of equilibrium, says therapeutic counsellor Nidhi Amanda Chaitow. She offers 5 simple ways to calm down, and emphasises tuning into one’s body wisdom, creativity, spirituality and sense of belonging.