As the world gears up to celebrate International Self-Care Day on July 24th, it is a great moment
to reflect on the significance of prioritizing our mental and physical well-being. In the midst of
life’s hustle and bustle, self-care stands as a form of resilience, offering us the tools to navigate
through the storms and cherish the calm moments.
Practicing self-care means looking after yourself to maintain wellness. Wellness encompasses
caring for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Additionally, for some, spiritual self-
care is also important. Self-care can involve setting aside quiet moments daily or connecting with
a friend or family member for coffee weekly. Working out is a great self-care technique. It is not
just about staying fit but also about feeling good mentally. Whether it is doing yoga or going for
a walk or run, moving your body has been proven to have a positive impact on your mental
health. Journaling offers a still moment to sort through our emotions and thoughts that offers
clarity and understanding, promoting emotional healing. Finding joy in activities like puzzles,
painting, or gardening can also aid in relaxation and distraction.
Building a support system is like constructing a reliable bridge to navigate life’s challenges.
Whether it is family, friends, or a support group, having a circle of people who comprehend,
empathize, and inspire us can be impactful. During tough times, self-care might look a little
different. It might mean asking for help when needed, leaning on your support system a bit more,
or just taking things one step at a time. The important thing is to be gentle with yourself and
know that it is okay to not be okay sometimes.
Mental health resources are available through various channels:
1. Anchored: Provides mental health and substance use disorder services. Call 912-530-
8889 for more information.
2. Wayne Memorial Hospital: Provides comprehensive healthcare services and offers
various programs to support mental and physical health. Visit Wayne Memorial Hospital
or call (912) 530-3118 for more information.
3. The Cottage House Thrift Store: Operated by Fair Haven Market, explore second-hand
treasures where purchases directly support domestic violence survivors.
4. Wayne County Recreation Department: Offers a variety of youth fitness programs and
recreational activities to promote physical and mental well-being. Visit
https://waynecountyrecreation.com/
5. Coastal Pines Technical College Counseling Services: Provides counseling and support
for students to help manage stress and maintain mental health. Call (912) 427-5800 for
more information.
The Wayne County Recovery Coalition (WCRC), Anchored, and Share Health Southeast
Georgia encourage you to prioritize you; make sure to take care of yourself, especially when life
gets hectic or difficult. Let’s keep doing the things that help us feel healthy, both mentally and
physically, and remain kind to ourselves. For more information about WCRC, visit our website
at https://waynecountyrecovery.com/ or contact our Project Coordinator, Renee Bolin, at
reneebolin@waynecountyrecovery.com.