Wintering Well in Ireland: Staying Bright Through the Dark Months

Wintering Well in Ireland: Staying Bright Through the Dark Months

As the days grow shorter and the skies turn greyer, many of us in Ireland feel the shift—not just in the weather, but in our mood, energy, and overall wellbeing. Winter can be a beautiful season, full of crisp walks, cosy evenings, and festive cheer. But it can also bring challenges, especially when it comes to mental health.

Introducing the Wintering Well Programme

This month, Dublin City Council Libraries are delighted to launch Wintering Well, a new programme designed to support wellbeing throughout the darker winter months.

As part of the initiative, visitors can pick up a Wintering Well pack, available later in the month, which offers practical information and resources on ways to prevent and manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The pack includes:

• Information sheets with tips on maintaining wellbeing during winter.
• Details of a course to help prevent SAD.
• A “sky frame”, encouraging people to get outdoors and connect with natural light.

There will also be a series of talks and events taking place in libraries across the city in November and January, exploring themes of wellbeing, light, and seasonal self-care. Learn about events here.

The Wintering Well pack was developed in partnership with the University of Glasgow, whose research focuses on sharing evidence-based resources to help people manage Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Join us in your local library this winter and discover ways to winter well together.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

One common experience during this time is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that typically occurs in the autumn and winter months. Even if you don’t meet the criteria for SAD, it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit “off” during the darker days.

Here are some gentle, practical ways to care for yourself this winter:

• Let the Light In

Natural light is a powerful mood booster. Try to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s cloudy—a short walk at lunchtime or sitting near a window can make a big difference.

Dublin City Council Libraries have introduced Lumie Vitamin L light therapy boxes in all 21 branches. These lamps mimic natural sunlight and are available for use in-library to help ease symptoms of SAD and winter blues. Just sit near one for 30 minutes a day to feel the benefits.

• Keep Moving

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to lift your mood. You don’t need to run marathons—gentle movement like yoga, dancing in your kitchen, or walking in your local park can help release feel-good endorphins.

Link in with Dublin City Council’s Sports and Leisure Services to find out about the wide range of sporting, leisure, and community activities available near you.

• Nourish Your Body

Comfort food is part of winter’s charm, but try to balance it with nutrient-rich meals. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and complex carbohydrates can support brain health and energy levels.

If sunlight is scarce, a vitamin D supplement might be worth discussing with your GP. All Dublin City Council Library branches are well stocked with recipe books—why not take out a tried-and-tested favourite, or try something completely new from the new releases stand? Join the library or search the catalogue 

• Stay Connected

It’s easy to hibernate when it’s cold and dark, but connection is vital. Reach out to friends, join a local group, or simply chat with a neighbour.

Dublin City Council Libraries host community events, workshops, and creative activities throughout the winter. From crafting groups to language conversation exchanges, there’s something for everyone. Check out the Libraries’ events page to see what’s on near you.

• Embrace the Season

The Oxford English Dictionary defines the Danish term hygge as “a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being; contentment from simple pleasures, such as warmth, food, friends, etc.”

Rather than resisting winter, try leaning into its slower pace. Create rituals that bring you joy: light a candle, read a good book, take a hot bath, or start a creative project.

• Mind Your Sleep

Winter can disrupt sleep patterns. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, avoid screens before bed, and create a calming bedtime routine.

As blue light from devices can disrupt sleep, try leaving your phone downstairs at night and reading a book instead—it’s a lovely way to wind down before bed.

• Know When to Seek Help

If you’re feeling persistently low, anxious, or overwhelmed, it’s okay to ask for help. SAD and other forms of depression are treatable.

Your GP is always a good first point of contact. You can also find information and resources—from general wellbeing tips to urgent services—on the HSE website.

• Finding Light in the Dark

Winter in Ireland can be tough, but it can also be a time of reflection, rest, and renewal. By tuning into your needs and treating yourself with kindness, you can navigate the season with resilience and grace.

Whether you're curling up with a book or basking in the glow of a Vitamin L lamp at your local library, remember: brighter days are ahead.