Monique Dames Psychology

28/03/2026

15/03/2026

Trauma doesn’t just affect our memories — it affects the nervous system. When someone experiences trauma, the brain learns to stay on high alert in order to protect them. This can lead to feeling constantly on edge, easily triggered, emotionally numb, or exhausted. These reactions are not signs of weakness; they are the nervous system trying to keep you safe after overwhelming experiences. Healing often involves helping the body and mind learn that it is safe again.

11/03/2026

Burnout and depression can look very similar — both can leave you feeling exhausted, unmotivated, and overwhelmed. Understanding the difference can help you seek the right kind of support. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone — and help is available.

23/02/2026

Why overthinking is NOT the same as problem-solving

Overthinking feels productive.

It feels responsible.
It feels like you’re “figuring it out.”
It feels like if you just think a little longer, you’ll finally feel calm.

But here’s the difference:

🧠 Problem-solving moves you forward.
🔁 Overthinking keeps you stuck.

Choose solving over spiralling!!

20/02/2026

On World Day of Social Justice, we are reminded that social justice and mental health are deeply connected. Inequality, discrimination, and poverty are not only social issues — they impact psychological wellbeing, contributing to stress, anxiety, depression, and hopelessness across communities worldwide. When people feel excluded or unheard, it affects their sense of dignity and belonging. But when fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity are promoted, individuals and societies thrive. Social justice is not separate from mental health — it is essential to it.

16/02/2026

What anxiety actually feels like (from a psychologist’s perspective)

Anxiety isn’t just “worrying too much.”

It’s:

• Waking up tired because your brain never really switched off
• Replaying conversations long after they’ve ended
• Feeling like something is wrong — even when everything is fine
• A tight chest, shallow breathing, a racing heart
• Snapping at the people you love because you’re overstimulated
• Being highly competent… but constantly afraid of failing

Anxiety is your nervous system stuck in protect mode.

It’s your brain trying to scan for danger — even when there isn’t any.

And here’s the important part:

Anxiety is not weakness.
It’s not a lack of faith.
It’s not attention-seeking.
It’s not “just stress.”

It’s a very real physiological response.

When someone says, “Just calm down,” what they’re actually asking is for your nervous system to switch off an alarm that feels urgent and real.

Healing from anxiety isn’t about becoming fearless.
It’s about teaching your body that it is safe again.

If this resonates, you’re not dramatic.
You’re overwhelmed. And that makes sense.

12/12/2025

We will be closed from 12 December 2025 until 7 January 2026. Our office will reopen on 8 January 2026. For any bookings for the new year, please email us at mdamespsychology@gmail.com. For any emergencies, go to your nearest emergency room.

Have a wonderful festive season!

16/10/2025

Our practice is 2 years old today!!! So thankful to have as my colleague, advisor and friend! God has blessed us beyond our wildest dreams. Thank you to our loyal clients and supporters. Looking forward to the next chapter!