Be Kind to Your Mind!

Below you will find a variety of events and activities during May Mental Health Awareness month. Can't make an event? You can still show your support by downloading at home activates, browsing the Take Action for Mental Health Toolkit or by following us on Facebook and Instagram to support the cause. 

Ways to participate in May Mental Health Awareness Month: 

Snuggles Soothe Struggles: May 1- May 30

County of San Luis Obispo Behavioral Health and Animal Services are partnering for Mental Health Month! Receive a "Snuggles Soothe Struggles" bandana when you adopt an animal anytime in the month of May. Pets have shown to improve mental health by providing companionship, reducing stress/anxiety, boosting self-confidence, and adding structure to your day. Visit the Animal Services website for a current list of adoptable animals. 

• County of San Luis Obispo Animal Services, 885 Oklahoma Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. 
• Shelter hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Wednesday 8am-7pm, Saturday 9am-5pm. 

Awareness Galleries: May 1-May 30

County Libraries in San Luis Obispo and Atascadero are raising awareness during May on mental health and substance use. Stop by the free exhibit to explore topics related to stress, drinking, cannabis, and overdose prevention In SLO County. The exhibit is available in English and Spanish and runs May 1-May 30. Participating libraries: 

• San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo CA, 93401 
  • Hours of operation: Tuesday 10-6, Wednesday 10-6, Thursday 9-5, Friday 1-5, Saturday 9-5 
• Atascadero Library, 6555 Capistrano, Atascadero CA, 93422 
  • Hours of operation: Tuesday 10-6, Wednesday 10-6, Thursday 9-5, Friday 1-5, Saturday 9-5 

Opening Minds Art Show: May 2- May 31, 2025

Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA), The Bunker SLO, and SLO County Arts host the annual ‘Opening Minds Art Show’ to explore the intricate connections between mental health and identity through the power of create expression. This year's theme focuses on how mental health shapes our sense of self, fostering dialogue around topics around resilience, recovery, stigma, and empowerment. View more information on TMHA's website. 

• Opening day and reception will be held on Friday, May 2nd at The Bunker, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Live reading of writing submission will be held on Friday, May 30th. 
• The exhibit will remain open through Saturday, May 31st. 

Mental Wellness Trauma Healing Workshop: May 13, 2025

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, join SLO City for a Trauma Healing Workshop. This event will address the impact of trauma on mental health and provide effective strategies for healing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from experts and engage in meaningful discussions. Dinner will be provided. Register for the workshop online. 

• Tuesday, May 13 from 5pm-7:30pm at the San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Behavioral Health at SLO Downtown Farmer's Market: May 15, 2025

Visit the Behavioral Health booth at SLO Downtown Farmer's Market where you can get Mental Health related goodies, win a swag bag, and talk with Behavioral Health staff about local services and how to care for your mental health. 

• Thursday, May 15th from 6pm- 9pm at the SLO Downtown Farmer's Market

Out of the Darkness Walk: May 17, 2025

This gathering will support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s education, research, and survivor support programs. In addition to raising awareness and funds to fight suicide, the walks give those who attend a chance to connect with others and know they are not alone, whether they walk in memory or in support of a loved one or in honor of their own mental health journey. Participants are encouraged to register for the walk ahead of time, create walking teams, and sign up to volunteer online here. 

• Saturday, May 17th from 10am- 1pm at the Cal Poly University Union Plaza (UU) Mustang Way, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Check-in and activities begin at 10:00 am, followed by the walk at 11am. 

SLO County Health Agency Bike Breakfast: May 22, 2025

Our annual Bike Breakfast is back! This event promotes Bike Month and May Mental Health Awareness Month. A great way to take care of your mental health is by exercising! Community members are encouraged to bike to the event for breakfast, music, games, and more. You can take your breakfast burrito or donut to-go or stick around for activities and conversation. No RSVP required! View the 2025 Bike Breakfast Flyer here.

• Thursday, May 22nd from 7am-9am, at Behavioral Health Department’s Prevention and Outreach Services Office, 277 South St., Suite T, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401. 

SLO County Wellness Center Open Houses 2025: See dates below

Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA) is thrilled to extend a warm invitation to you for the upcoming Open Houses at TMHA Wellness Centers this May. This series of events will be hosted across our three locations: Hope House in SLO, Safe Haven in Arroyo Grande, and Life House in Atascadero. View more information on TMHA's website. 

• Safe Haven Open House on Friday, May 16th from 12pm- 3pm at 203 Bridge St. Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 
• Hope House Open House on Friday, May 23rd from 12pm-3pm at 1306 Nipomo St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 
• Life House Open House on Friday, May 30th from 11am-3pm at 5850 West Mall Atascadero, CA 93422