As the Seasons Change, Take Care of Your Mental Health

Written By: Claire H. at Pacifica Libraries

The seasons are starting to change—it’s getting darker earlier and the temperature is starting to cool off. For some, this can bring a sense of dread: the dark and cold months of fall and winter can affect our mood and lead to a sense of loneliness. San Mateo County Libraries understands the importance of mental wellness and community to combat these feelings and bring joy throughout the year. Here are some ways to sustain your mental health as we head into this new season.

NAMI Walks

San Mateo County is partnering with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to put on NAMI Walks San Mateo County on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Seal Point Park in San Mateo. This walk generates funds to bring NAMI’s amazing programs and resources to those who need it most. This is a great chance to team up with friends and get moving outside! 

Library Events

San Mateo County Libraries hosts a variety of programs and events to stave off feelings of isolation and generate a sense of community. Explore your creative side with arts & craft programs like gem painting, sewing classes and much more. Try a new activity with our health & wellness classes including yoga and tai chi. Join one of our many book clubs and find community in shared reading and discussion. We'll have new books available every month on our Fable Book Club app!  

Online Resources 

Our libraries even offer online resources for those days when it’s too rainy or windy to leave your house. The Calm app gives you easy access to a wide variety of meditations and sleep stories to help you get to sleep. Creativebug has countless arts videos for you to develop your favorite new hobby at your own pace. You could learn a new language with Pronunciator, master the New York Times Crossword Puzzle with New York Times Games or just cozy up with a mug of something warm and a magazine on Flipster. All of these resources are free for you to access with your library card from San Mateo County Libraries! 

What is your mental wellness plan for this fall and winter? Let us know in the comments!