How to cope with retirement depression

Retirement is a big life change which often means more than just stopping work. It can lead to a loss of routine and an increase in solitudine without the social connections of the workplace. Because of this, it can be difficult to adjust to retirement - and retiring may lead to low mood or worsen existing symptoms of depressione.

Georgina Sturmer, Counselling Directory member and therapist explains that for many of us, retirement might feel like we’ve hit the jackpot - finally having the freedom to do exactly what we want, when we want to. However, for some people this rose-tinted vision ends up being something else entirely.

What can cause retirement depression?

Work and our sense of purpose

One of the key reasons why retirement can be challenging is because it can make you feel like you’ve lost your purpose or identity. Whether we like it or not, we tend to see our jobs as an extension of who we are - especially if we’ve spent many years forming a career.

Sturmer adds: "Think about how many hours a week you spend at lavoro, travelling to work, thinking about work. Our career and our experiences in the workplace shape who we are and how we feel about ourselves.

"Successes and failures, working towards goals, developing relationships with colleagues, ambition, social interactions - the workplace has it all. When we retire - even if we have looked forward to it for many years - it might feel as if we have jumped off a cliff. We might miss the approval that we received when we were in the workplace, and the associated sense of self-worth."

Ageing and financial anxiety

Adjusting to a retirement income may also lead to money worries, which can also contribute to depressione o ansia. Retirement might also serve as a reminder that we are ageing, which can trigger worries about our health.

Stereotypes surrounding age and retirement are often negative. However, treating retirement as a new phase of life with more time for hobbies and travel - rather than the 'final' chapter of life - can actually make us happier and healthier.

Plan your retirement life

Sturmer advises that you should prepare for retirement emotionally as well as financially.

"Think beyond the practical and financial implications," she says. "Think about what you might miss from the workplace - the social connections, the stimulation, the challenge, the sense of purpose. Start thinking about how you might build this into your retirement life."

It’s your chance to decide what you want to do with your time.

Create a schedule

It’s difficult to go from having a set routine to not having one at all, so it can help to create a new schedule for your day. Create set times when you will do work around the house, opzioni di esercizio or do volunteer work.

Sturmer advises, if you're wondering what to do after retirement, look for opportunities to get outside and to build new connections. Do things to keep both your mind and body active.

Rimani attivo

Esercizio fisico is a good way to boost your mood and meet other people.

Local community centres often have meet and greet sessions where you can chat to other people and build new friendships.

Work on your communication

Sturmer says: "If retirement means a shift in your relationships and responsibilities at home, remember that open communication is key. This avoids any anger, resentment or frustration that might build up."

Think about your finances in advance

Planning out your money situation before you retire is essential to avoid lo stress and anxiety. Consider how much you might need for your lifestyle, your retirement income - including your savings and any spending adjustments. The charity Age UK can offer advice and support.

Parla con il tuo medico

If you’re struggling with your mood and it is impacting your life, your doctor can advise on the best course of action for you.