authentic self-care helpline

Self-care is a buzz word these days. Everywhere we look it seems a different business is plugging their product all for the name of self-care - wear these silk pajamas, buy this fancy bath bomb, treat yourself to dessert at our restaurant - but what is true self-care?

This is the first story of a series in which I delve into what authentic selfcare is by having conversations with local mental health professionals listed in Mental Health America of Fredericksburg's HELPLINE resource.

Recently I spoke with Dr. Elisabeth Jerome, Owner and Director of Wellspring Child & Family Psychology. Wellspring has been serving families in the Fredericksburg area with their behavioral health services since 2014.

Dr. Jerome defines self-care using her background in attachment: "I think of self-care as the caretaking relationship we have with ourselves. As kids, we have a

helpline resource

By anne-Tillery Melson

Dr. Elisabeth "Beth" Jerome, Director of Wellspring Child & Family Psychology

caregiver; but as adults, we are our own caregiver. I think [self-care] is about my relationship with myself as a caregiver."

The way in which we talk to ourselves is integral to building healthy self-care practices, according to Dr. Jerome. When I asked her to share a selfcare tip, she said, "Start to notice your internal dialogue. If you notice that you are talking to yourself in a way that you would not talk to someone you love, then that probably is a good indication that your self-talk is a little distorted or unbalanced."

Everyone can use a little more self-care in their lives. But sometimes selfcare is not enough. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health challenges, extra support may be necessary. Help can come in a variety of ways, such as counseling or support groups.

Twice a year, Wellspring partners with Mental Health America of Fredericksburg (MHAfred) to provide a free psychoeducational support group for teens. I asked Dr. Jerome what she thinks is special about this partnership. She shared, "The teen group is one of my favorite services we offer. I'm a firm believer that everyone's mental health affects everyone in the community. Making services accessible to all people is so important." MHAfred maintains an extensive list of local mental health providers that we call the HELPLINE. We keep track of the services offered in the area, insurances accepted, and new client availability. If you are looking for a local mental health provider or want to learn more about MHAfred's programs, call Mental Health America of Fredericksburg at (540) 3712704 or visit our website at mhafred.org.

Anne-Tillery Melson is the Suicide Prevention Education Coordinator at Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

Walk for Mental Wellness Saturday May 7. 9am, Maury Park. Walk with us through downtown FXBG or virtually to raise awareness about mental health and wellness in our community! Register at mhafred.org/walk