The city's 'Wintering Well' initiative is offering therapeutic SAD lamps for hire, to communities across the city.
Glasgow Life Libraries has launched a wellbeing initiative encouraging residents to borrow a 'Wintering Well' box from their local library. The boxes are designed to support anyone experiencing low mood or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Coinciding with the opening of the Wintering Well exhibition at the Mitchell Library, which runs from 12 January to 9 February 2026, the boxes include a therapeutic lamp to help counteract the effects of SAD, along with a guidebook sharing tips to help develop a healthier winter routine.
The exhibition offers a snapshot of what it’s like to live with SAD, documenting personal experiences which were gathered at a series of Glasgow-based events. These were held as part of a research project on winter light and mental health, and informed the design of the guidebook as well as an online course.
The partnership between Glasgow Life, the University of Glasgow, and the University of Edinburgh has made a total of 66 Wintering Well Boxes available from the Mitchell Library and across 10 community libraries.
What is SAD?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically starting during autumn when days get darker.
Shorter days disrupt our internal body clock and affect serotonin and melatonin levels – the chemicals that regulate our mood and sleep. According to the NHS, symptoms of SAD include:
- low mood
- a lack of interest in things you usually enjoy
- feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless
- feeling restless or irritable
- difficulty concentrating
- being more hungry and eating more than usual
- being more tired and sleeping more than usual
- thoughts of suicide or self-harm
It's not simply 'feeling a bit down' – SAD is a recognised mental health condition that deserves proper attention and support.
How is SAD treated?
The good news is that treatment options are available, including light therapy boxes, talking therapies, spending time outdoors (even on grey days), and medication.
Read this: 10 ways to tackle SAD now
Annmarie Galbraith, health and wellbeing coordinator with Glasgow Life Libraries, said: “We’re delighted to roll out the Wintering Well boxes during the darker months of the year. Winter can be a tough time, when the lack of natural sunlight makes everyday life feel more of a struggle. As Scotland’s largest city, and one that experiences low light levels for much of the winter, we know this can be a challenging time for many people.
“The Wintering Well boxes are designed to help people manage low moods in simple, practical ways, whether that’s trying a SAD lamp, taking part in creative activities, or finding connection and support through their local library.
“Public libraries are trusted, welcoming spaces, and this scheme shows how they can play a real role in supporting health and wellbeing, helping people feel more supported and better equipped to cope with the long, dark winter days.”
Glasgow Libraries offer a range of information and support to help with health and wellbeing. Find out more at www.glasgowlife.org.uk/libraries.
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