November 20, 2025
Subject: YOUR TOP 10 - What You Need to Know Before the Holiday Break
Dear Seawolves,
We hope you are looking forward to the Thanksgiving break and enjoy a few days to relax, recharge, and connect with family and friends.
There are no classes from Wednesday, November 26 to Sunday, November 30. If you’re currently a resident student, you are welcome to remain on campus during any or all of the break. Campus offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28. Campus dining will be available during the break as noted on the SBU Eats website. Please note the special Thanksgiving week schedule.
THE TOP 10 - Staying Safe, Healthy, and Well
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Get a good night’s sleep. If you will be traveling off-campus by car, stay safe and alert, and make sure to get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel.
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Celebrate safely. When you get together with family and friends, remember your Red Watch Band training to prevent an alcohol or drug overdose and stay safe.
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Boost your immune system. We’re in the midst of flu season, so now is a good time to get your flu shot at any pharmacy or your doctor’s office. Check the Student Health Services website for dates and times for flu vaccination clinics.
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Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
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Keep healthy routines. Breaks can throw off your rhythm, so hold onto simple habits: move your body, eat balanced meals, and get enough sleep.
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Know when to say no. You don’t have to attend every gathering. If certain people or situations drain you, it’s okay to decline or limit your time. Protecting your peace is self-care.
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Calm your mind. When you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed, try doing grounding exercises to help calm your nervous system. The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique or square box breathing are quick yet effective ways to reduce your stress.
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Prepare for differing viewpoints. When reconnecting with family and friends, anticipate differing viewpoints and make a plan for sensitive topics. Set boundaries, such as agreeing on off-limit subjects or where tough conversations should happen to keep situations from escalating.
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Refocus conversations through shared activities. Plan activities, like volunteering, that shift attention to doing good together. Shared service can ease tension, create positive memories, and naturally steer conversations away from sensitive subjects.
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Take care of your emotional well-being. Holidays can be stressful. Acknowledge your feelings, prioritize self-care, and lean on stress-relievers like movement, mindfulness, rest, and nourishing routines.
Health and Wellness Campus Resources
Stony Brook offers several wellness-focused spaces and services designed to help you manage stress and access support. If you’re seeking in-person care, reach out to Student Health Services and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). If you’re not on campus or need to speak with someone after hours, TimelyCare is free and available for you 24/7 for virtual medical, mental health care, and health coaching services.
Basic Needs and Food Assistance
The Seawolves Pantry (Union L-20) is open to all members of the campus community experiencing basic needs insecurity. The pantry serves as a supplemental food source, providing free access to nutritious food, personal care and hygiene items, school supplies, and kitchen essentials. For a list of upcoming campus events offering free food, view the website dashboard. For community-based resources, please visit the Seawolves Pantry Off-Campus Resources page.
Please reach out if you need help or support. We are here for you. Wishing you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!
Sincerely,
Rick Gatteau, PhD
Vice President for Student Affairs
Marisa Bisiani, DNP, ANP-BC
Associate Vice President
Health, Wellness, and Prevention Services