Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness invites residents, businesses, organizations, and community partners to recognize May as Mental Health Month by participating in the annual Light Up Green campaign.
In keeping with the 2026 national theme — Mental Health Month is More Good Days Together — landmarks, buildings, homes and businesses across the county will shine green (the official color of mental health awareness) as a reminder that hope, healing and support are possible, and that no one must face mental health challenges alone.
More than 150 locations throughout the county are participating in the campaign, demonstrating countywide support for mental wellness.
Among the new participating locations are Cottage Health, Dignity Health – Marian Regional Medical Center, CenCal Health, and Paseo Nuevo.
Returning participants include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Santa Barbara Airport, and Direct Relief. For a full list of local buildings lighting up, click here.
“Mental health is strengthened through connection, compassion, and community. By coming together to support one another, Santa Barbara County can help create more good days for everyone,” event organizers said.
Ways to participate in Light Up Green
* Light Up Green: Illuminate your building, home, office, or outdoor space in green throughout May.
* Take the tour: Visit participating sites and view the full local list as part of the national campaign here.
* Share your photos: Share photos of green-lit buildings. Tag #LightUpGreenSBC on social media, and/or email photos to Suzanne Grimmesey at suzkirk@sbcbwell.org to be featured on our social media and community highlights.
* Spread awareness: Encourage conversations about mental health and share resources with friends, family, and coworkers.
* Practice connection: Reach out to someone, check in on a loved one, or participate in a community wellness event.
Community Events During Mental Health Month
May 1 – Ribbon cutting and open house of the new Child and Family Behavioral Wellness Service Center, 1-2 p.m., 315 W. Haley St., Santa Barbara
May 2 – Cottage Health Mental Health Fair
May 4 – May is Mental Health Month Open House, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Behavioral Wellness conference rRoom, 429 N. San Antonio Road, Santa Barbara
May 5 – County Board of Supervisors Proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Month
May 6 – SBCC Combating the Stigma of Mental Health event
May 8 – Sanctuary Centers Mental Health Awareness Month Art Show
May 8 – May is Mental Health Month Open House, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Behavioral Wellness adult conference room, 500 W. Foster Road, Santa Maria
May 15 – May is Mental Health Month Open House, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Behavioral Wellness adult conference Rroom, 425 W. Central Ave., Lompoc.
May 31 – Mental Wellness Center Peace of Mind Walk (registration fee)
Need Support? Help is available 24/7. If you or someone you know needs support, contact the Behavioral Wellness Access Line, 888-868-1649.
To learn more about the county Department of Behavioral Wellness, visit http://countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness.