Transitioning into a Happy Retirement
If you are feeling anxious or stressed about retirement, or you may be experiencing retirement depression – we can help you define what thriving in retirement looks like and find the value-driven action to live it.
Is retirement not what you expected?
Retirement is a common time of bewilderment, loneliness, excitement, fear, possibility, anxiety– leaving you startled. Retirement like many other changes and transitions in life can be a struggle. You have spent your last many decades in a routine driven by work structures, family goals, financial goals and if you hit retirement without mentally and emotionally planning for it, you might feel like you are missing something.
There is no research that shows that there is a direct relationship between depression and retirement. But retirement can mean facing a variety of stressors that can impact your mood. From upending your daily routine to selling a family home and moving away from a familiar environment. Retirement means change.
Wondering who you'll be without your career?
Don’t worry but do refine your definition of yourself. Work on identifying your roles and part of yourself that will stay the same after you leave your career. We can help you define your values, find value-driven action and the flexibility to redefine your passions. Aligning your daily life with your dream for retirement.
Do I have the retirement blues...?
1 in 3 retirees reports symptoms of Depression according to the World Health Organization. Yet it’s not talked about, and worse you might feel guilty for having any mood other than happy after reaching the goal of retirement. Retirement can be naturally stressful, because it means change – with age it can be harder to find psychological flexibility. The changes that happen in retirement might also be accompanied by changes in physical abilities, self image, living circumstances and financial concerns which increases questioning, worry and maybe even fear.
Symptoms of retirement stress, depression and anxiety:
- Loss of interest in activities you use to enjoy
- Difficulty setting priorities
- Avoiding social gatherings
- Feeling worthless or without purpose
- Irritability or anger
- Difficulty with attention and concentration
- Feeling of worthlessness, guilty, or hopelessness
- Changes in appetite
- Increased awareness and focus on physical pains
- Difficulty making decisions
- Loneliness or isolation
For more details about our retirement support therapy options in Scottsdale, call us at 480-300-2635 for a free 15 minute consultation or email us with your questions. If you’re ready to get started, schedule online here.
Coping in Retirement:
If you are noticing the symptoms above there are many strategies you can use to help adjust. The first and most important one is to not ignore the symptoms. Talk about the challenges. Be kind to yourself and then, consider doing some of the following:
Create Structure
- Now that work is over, spend some time planning your days and follow through on the plans.
- Your alarms may still be needed
Stay Social
- Schedule activities with friends and family
- Take your significant other on dates
- Attend events you may not have had time for previously
Involve the family in this new stage
- Call your family, you’re not bothering them.
- Show up for family events (weekly sports, plays, recitals)
- Find something you like to do with family
- Ask for help if you need it
Take Care of Your Body
- Find an activity that includes movement (from chair yoga to Olympic swim teams)
- Eat your greens, pay attention to necessary minerals and vitamins
- Consider balance
Take Care of Your Mind
- Find a higher power, spiritual practice, or engage in your religious practices
- Be mindful
- Be kind to yourself and share your thoughts with loved ones
Get support
- Talk with a therapist
- Follow-up with medical care
- Speak with your spiritual advisor
