Picture this: you go from working 40+ hours a week with set routines and schedules, then one day, you retire and that routine is gone. People, places, and things you used to see are now memories, and it’s time to make new ones.
When planning for retirement, it’s common to not consider the emotional toll and adjustment that this change will bring. In some cases, it can cause sadness, loss of interest, and disrupted sleep.
It’s common for someone to feel like their status and identity are intertwined with work. When they retire, that can lead to feeling an immense amount of grief and loss.
Coping with Retirement
Whether you’re close to retirement, already retired, or just planning ahead, it’s important to know how to cope with the depression, grief, and changes associated with this life transition.
Prepare for the New Chapter
The possibility of grief and depression can be heightened when someone goes from having a set schedule to no schedule. It’s important to create and maintain a schedule that works for your new chapter and situation. This can include planning activities, joining clubs, or making plans with family and friends. It could also involve incorporating exercise into your routine
When you do any or all of these things, you’re able to create and maintain a healthier lifestyle that is also more satisfying and will increase overall happiness.
Get Finances in Order
Building off the tip above, it’s important to make sure that you are financially secure going into this new chapter. It’s common for those close to retirement to be fearful about their overall financial security. This can ultimately lead to a wide range of emotions, including depression.
Consider talking to a financial planner who will help you plan and feel better about how your money and assets will work in this new chapter.
Gradually Transition into Retirement
There are two different ways that this could be accomplished. One way could be to stay at your current job and, if possible, go from full-time to part-time work to ease the transition. If that’s not an option, consider getting a part-time job, a temporary job, or doing something in the self-employed realm.
In many cases, people who get post-retirement jobs similar to their long-term careers have better mental health than those who fully retire.
Figure Out Roles and Responsibilities at Home
If you live with someone else, retirement can also result in changes to that person’s life as well. Consider discussing the roles that you and your partner have at home. Are there ones that you should renegotiate or reconsider? This could include taking on additional responsibilities, such as grocery shopping or doing laundry. Shifting responsibilities from one to the other can help to balance things out.
Find Ways to Occupy Your Time
It’s common for people who retire to start off having goals and plans and things that they want to accomplish with their newfound freedom. Some people continue with their goals. Others may find themselves staying at home more often or staying to themselves. Instead of increasing the amount of time spent watching TV or doing other things by yourself, consider having activities that you can do to help stimulate your mind. You could also consider setting up times to meet up with family and friends to stay social.
Another great way to occupy time could be to volunteer for a cause that you believe in and feel passionate about. This can be fulfilling and gives purpose to everyday life for many retirees. It can also be comforting to meet new people and either enhance or learn new skills.
Next Steps
If you or someone you know are concerned about grief or depression around retirement, therapy can help with navigating the symptoms and establishing better coping strategies. Our team of skilled therapists can provide the support you need so that you can start enjoying your retirement.
