Depression And Retirement

Persistent sad, anxious or empty mood

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

Loss of pleasure or interest in ordinary activities

Problems with sleep (sleeping too much or too little)

Loss of appetite or overeating

Decreased energy

Restlessness or irritability

Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions

Inappropriate feelings of guilt

Thoughts of death or suicide.

If this is you -- what to do with this retirement depression? You have to start living differently -- whatever that is for you!

First, are you lonely? I'm an introvert and I really enjoy doing things alone -- but I'm not lonely.... I like online friends, I don't need to see them every day, but we can chat daily. Others, maybe you, need the human contact daily.... but you can't sit and wait for someone to call and invite you to lunch, or to run shopping.

Take the initiative and just DO IT!

Call someone you haven't seen lately.. and simply say "want to do lunch today?" its that easy, really it is.. and if they are busy, call someone else, or make a luncheon date right there and then for tomorrow, or next Tuesday. Don't say "let's do it soon" as it may never happen... make that luncheon date today... don't put it off.

If you are lonely and also fit the depression symptoms at the top of this page, please see your doctor. He can help you withe medication, temporarily, to allow you to transition into your retirement years.... just for while you discover the NEW YOU, please seek help.

Now, here are a few other suggestions for helping yourself get out more and avoid the lonely feeling... I hope you will add your own suggestion at the bottom of this page also to encourage others with your ideas!

Find new friends --- don't wait until you retire, start looking for contacts outside work (in your church, register for a craft class or hobby, invite someone out to lunch). Try to start developing a community of friends earlier, rather than later.

Don't wait for new friends to find you! YOU can also take the first step.. a simple cup of coffee, lunch, chit chat with someone at a craft class (adult night classes or JoAnne's).

Join a club or community group. Nature lovers can help at community parks or nature walks, historians can check with their local historical society to see where they might help, or even political opportunities -- there are lots of opportunities -- just THINK about your gifts (we all have them, even if simply the "gift of gab" to chit chat with seniors at a retirement village or kids at pre-school).

Volunteer - local library if you are a reader, and gardners could find a plant store or greenhouse, technical folks could help church with the services or simply greeting at the church door (and meeting every person who walks through that door).

Often, you've dreamed of moving to Florida or Arizona at retirement.. the dream finally happens and you move - only to discover you have no support system and no family or friends. Sure they come to visit you, but thats really not enough. It doesn't occur to lots of new retirees to just stay put -- where you lived your life. That's where your friends and family are... later, after you've adjusted, you can seek out new locations and communities.. slowly.

BOTTOM LINE -- just don't sit and wait for company. Go out there and find some! There are lots of folks who'd love to have a cup of coffee with you... don't let your mind keep you inside. Visit your doctor for help and let's see how your Retirement Life blooms!

Links to other websites on Retirement and Depression

Before Retirement, anxiety and depression

After Retirement, anxiety and depression

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