Printed Holiday Guide turned open to page that reads "How to Manage Holiday Stress."

New Holiday Guide Helps Community Manage Stress and Find Balance This Season

Author: Behavioral Health
Date: 12/11/2025 9:00 AM

Behavioral Health equips individuals and families with practical tools to maintain emotional well-being throughout the holidays.

The County of San Luis Obispo Behavioral Health Department is pleased to share the 2025 Behavioral Health Holiday Guide with the community.

While cities have strung up their lights and get-togethers have started, the holiday season may not always be merry and bright for some. Many people naturally struggle during this time of year, due to a variety of reasons like demands from families, friends, or end of year work deadlines. Coupled with stressors from finances, travel, and overbooked calendars, many may find it hard to feel “festive.”

Behavioral Health’s annual Holiday Guide aims to support the entire community during the holiday season by addressing key health related topics such as:
  • Recognizing and managing holiday stress.
  • Coping with loss and grief.
  • Tips to conquer seasonal depression, fatigue, and anxiety.
  • Helpful strategies to stay sober during the holidays.
  • Practical tips for celebrating the season safely and substance free.
  • Safe storage to prevent medication and substance poisoning in your house.
“The holidays can be a magical time, but also can bring out feelings of loneliness, immense stress, and anxiety, especially for those who are in recovery or managing a mental health condition,” says Dr. Star Graber, PhD, LMFT, Director of County San Luis Obispo Behavioral Health. “This guide provides great tips and resources on how we can all create a healthy holiday experience and help each other navigate and manage emotions this season."

The guide also provides a list of current Behavioral Health clinics, local and national Crisis Hotlines, and community food, shelter, toy, and health resources in San Luis Obispo County.

The guide is available in English and Spanish online at www.slocounty.gov/BHResources.
Community members needing extra assistance for them or their loved ones may call the Behavioral Health Access Line at 1-800-838-1381.