by When people retire, they are expected to do things that they cannot do due to long working hours or hectic lives. Whether it’s gardening, playing sports or traveling, it can be anything. Life is meant to be simple and you are meant to take it easy after you retire. But it’s also natural for some people to feel depressed after retirement. According to a 2020 study published by the National Library of Medicine, about one in three retired people suffer from depression. You can say goodbye to the retirement blues by learning how to manage depression.
For effective advice on retirement depression, Health Shots contacted Dr Rituparna Ghosh, Clinical Psychologist, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
What is retirement depression?
Retirement depression, also known as retirement blues or retirement transition depression, refers to a condition in which people experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression after taking their retirement. retirement from a career or long-term employment. Dr. Ghosh says it’s a psychological and emotional response to the significant life change that retirement represents. Retirement is a major life event that can bring with it various challenges and adjustments. These include:
1. Loss of Identity
For many people, their career or job becomes part of who they are. In retirement, they might struggle to find purpose and direction.
2. Social isolation
Retirement can lead to reduced social interactions, especially if your job was your primary source of social connections.
3. Financial concerns
Worries about financial stability or managing money during retirement can lead to stress and anxiety.
4. Changes in routine
The structured work schedule often disappears after retirement, leaving some people feeling lost or without a sense of daily purpose.
5. Health issues
Health problems associated with aging can add to the emotional burden of retirement, says the expert.
6. Feelings of worthlessness
Some people may feel a sense of worthlessness or believe that they no longer contribute to society.
Tips for dealing with depression in retirement
Dealing with depression in retirement requires a combination of self-awareness, positive coping strategies, and seeking support from others. Here are some tips for overcoming the retirement blues:
1. Acknowledge your feelings
Recognize and accept that it is normal to feel depressed or anxious about retirement. Avoid repressing your emotions; instead, give yourself permission to feel and express them, says Dr. Ghosh.
2. Stay socially connected
Participate in social activities to combat isolation. Stay connected with your friends, family and former colleagues even if you no longer see them at work. Join clubs, volunteer or participate in community events to build new social networks.
3. Create a routine
Establish a daily schedule or routine that provides structure and purpose. This could include activities like exercising, pursuing hobbies, and reading.
4. Explore new interests
Retirement is an opportunity to explore passions and interests that you haven’t had time for in your career. Discover new hobbies or revisit old ones to bring joy and fulfillment into your life.
5. Set goals
Set clear and achievable goals for your retirement. Whether they relate to personal development, travel or community involvement, having goals can give you purpose, says the expert.
6. Financial planning
Solve any financial problem by creating a realistic budget and financial plan. Seek advice from a financial adviser if necessary to ease the stress of money matters.
7. Maintain Physical Health
Regular physical activity, a balanced diet and sufficient sleep are essential for general well-being. Physical health can have a positive impact on your mood and mental outlook.
8. Practice mindfulness
Try some mindfulness techniques as they can help reduce stress and increase emotional resilience.
9. Stay open to change
Accept the changes that retirement brings and be open to trying new experiences. Cultivate a positive mindset and view retirement as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
If retirement-related depression becomes overwhelming or persists, consider talking to a mental health expert. Indeed, retirement-related depression can potentially get worse if not treated appropriately. While it’s normal to experience some level of adjustment and emotional ups and downs during the transition to retirement, some people may find that their feelings of depression persist or intensify over time. If not properly managed, retirement depression can worsen your mental health.
