Community Resources for Mental Health Awareness Month 2026

Written by Ella D., Library Communications

Every May, San Mateo County Libraries observes Mental Health Awareness Month. This year's local theme, Mental Health Is Ours, inspires our commitment to uplifting community-rooted spaces, and providing collective opportunities for healing. 

Mental Health First Aid Training

Mental Health First Aid takes the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations about mental health and substance use problems. Over the course of two days at Millbrae Library, this eight-hour session will leave you with the tools and language you need to support community members and loved ones through challenging times.

Space is limited, so be sure to register for both sessions in advance.

 

Wellness at the Library

Join us for free events at our 13 libraries that will fuel your body, mind and spirit.

View all our upcoming Health & Wellness events and Mental Health events. You can find more local resources for mental health at San Mateo County Health.

Access Free Meditations with the Calm App

Did you know that San Mateo County Libraries cardholders have free access to the Calm app?

With the Calm app, you can access free meditations, sleep stories and daily encouragement to help you stay grounded. Calm is available on the web or as an app on your mobile device. (Requires a library card starting with 29041, 29731 or 29735.)

Additionally, Calm is hosting two virtual webinars this month with mental health experts.

Silence to Support: Navigating Depression and Anxiety with Compassion

Wednesday, May 13, at 12:30 PM

Join Calm ambassador Raymond Braun, NAMI ambassador Josh Bassett and Kaiser Permanente psychiatrist Dr. Asha Patton Smith for a powerful conversation about recognizing mental health symptoms in yourself and your loved ones, and sensitively navigating conversations around the subject. Register today, opens a new window.

Early Signs Matter: Strategies for Supporting Youth Mental Health

Wednesday, May 20, at 10:00 AM

What’s the key to offering the right mental health support at the right time? In a special virtual event, Chief Wellbeing Officer for Children’s Mercy Kansas City Dr. Angie Myers and child and family psychologist Dr. Alison Stoner will discuss the economic impact of youth mental health on the workplace, strategies for supporting young people and working parents and building an organizational culture that prioritizes mental health. Register today, opens a new window.

(Please note: These virtual webinars are hosted by the Calm app, not San Mateo County Libraries.)