Your Space to Recharge: Mental Health Awareness Month at the Library

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Library is here to help you recharge with a range of events, helpful resources, and welcoming spaces that support your well-being. Whether you’re looking to move, breathe, cuddle a pup or simply get lost in a good book, the Library offers space for you to reset and take care of yourself in between study sessions.

Psst… CAPS is also offering events and resources all month long — be sure to check them out!

Attend An Event

Yoga at the Library

Stretch, breathe and take a break from the stress of the quarter with vinyasa.

  • Every Thursday in May, 10-11 a.m.
  • Weekly registration required
  • Bring your own yoga mat and props

Mindfulness Studio

Energize your spirit through visualizations, breathwork and compassion-based meditations.

De-stress at the Library: Lo-fi Study Jam

Study with chill lo‑fi hip‑hop beats, hot tea and a welcoming vibe.

  • Tuesday, May 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Drop-in event

De-stress with Pups

Take a paws and recharge with some four-legged friends!

  • Tuesday, April 38, 2-3:30 p.m. (Okay, it’s technically not May — but we’re getting a head start!)
  • Tuesday, June 2, 2-3:30 p.m. (We know — it’s not May, again — but the pups don’t mind!)
  • Drop-in event

Browse the Mental Health Awareness Month Book Display

When: May 1–31, 2026 

Where: Geisel Library, Meet Spot

What: Explore a curated collection of books on mental health, resilience and self-care.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this display features memoirs, graphic novels, poetry, healing narratives, mindfulness resources, guides on stress and anxiety, and clinical perspectives on mental health. There’s something here for every kind of reader – whether it’s a personal story that resonates, a practical tool, or simply something beautiful.

We developed this display as part of the San Diego Circuit Belonging & Mental Wellness Campaign, a collaborative effort by libraries across San Diego County to foster community and support mental health.

Please note that some books in this collection address difficult mental health topics, including trauma, self-harm, suicide, and abuse. Browse with care, and prioritize your well-being.


Explore Helpful Resources

De-stress LibGuide

Need a quick mental reset between classes? Our De-Stress LibGuide offers printable coloring pages, a virtual jigsaw puzzle, feel-good recipes, and more.

Find Your Next Read

Taking care of your mind sometimes starts with a really good book. Browse our book recommendations via the De-Stress LibGuide, our Recommended Reading Lists for wellness-inspired picks, or the Calm Cave Collection. Alternatively, explore the Library’s Popular Reading Collection near Audrey’s Café in Geisel for something light, gripping or inspiring.


On-Site Amenities

WalkStations

Get your steps in while you study! WalkStations with low-speed treadmills and adjustable desks are available in Geisel 1 Southwest and 2 East.

‍Foam Rollers

Quick stretch fix? Foam rollers are ready to roll at:

  • Geisel 2 East
  • Geisel 1 Southwest
  • WongAvery Floor 1 South Stairs

Puzzles and Coloring Pages

Unwind your mind — puzzle it out or color your stress away.

  • Chessboard: Geisel 2 East near the windows
  • Shared jigsaw puzzles: Geisel 1 Southwest, Geisel 2 West, WongAvery Floor 2
  • Printed coloring pages, puzzles, and mazes: Leisure Lounge (Geisel 1 West)
  • Color & Share board: Geisel 2 East (near the restrooms) and WongAvery Floor 2

Take a Break Space

Meditation Spaces (Geisel Floor 6, Room 621 and 628)

The Calm Cave and Zen Den offer quiet, welcoming spaces to rest your mind with comfortable seating, meditation props, and mindful reading.

Leisure Lounge Art/Game Room (Geisel 1 West)

Drop in to play a board or card game, color, make origami, or de-stress with printable puzzles.

Sensory Space (Geisel 1 West)

Designed for both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, the space is intended to foster wellness, support academic success, and empower users to manage stimuli in ways that maximize individual well-being and learning. Users may reserve up to two 15-minute blocks per day using their SSO.


Take Care, Tritons

We hope these resources give you a boost this Mental Health Awareness Month — and beyond. Whether you’re escaping for a quiet moment, joining a yoga class, or diving into a good book, the Library is here to support well-being and academic journey.