With all the stress of find the perfect gift for that special someone, trying to fit into that outfit for the office party, and an overwhelming social calendar, it’s no secret that the holidays can be a tough time. Luckily, Santa Barbara has networks of free support available on a weekly basis to get you through rough patches, any time of the year.
• Surviving Loss Support Group: Facilitated by a psychologist. Second and fourth Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m. at Vista del Monte (3775 Modoc Rd.). Ages 50+. Call 570-9765.
• Women’s Codependent Anonymous Meeting: 12-step-based support group. Mondays, 5:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church (2101 State St.). Call 450-3562.
• KicKnic: Unique nicotine cessation support group. Fridays, 6:30-8 p.m. at the Unitarian Society (Rm. B, 1535 Santa Barbara St.). Call 822-8811.
• POZ & Partners: Ongoing group for persons with HIV, as well as their partners, friends, family, and caregivers. Tuesdays, 7-9:30 p.m. at Pacific Pride Foundation (Rm. 111, 126 E. Haley St., #A11). Call 963-3636.
For a complete list of support groups in the area, visit independent.com/events.