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Addicted to Sleep

by Becky/North Carolina

I retired last November after working as a librarian for 27 years. Since then, I have spent a great deal of time in my recliner, watching Westerns, doing nothing or sleeping.

I have a little pad with a Do This Next list on it, but I don't feel as much like I need to hurry to get them done.

I am really encouraged to hear what all the others here have posted, for I have discovered that I want to sleep a lot, and sleep for 12 or 14 hours every day. I have been worried that this was the sign of depression, but after reading the posts on this site, I have a new theory.

I believe that being subjected to many continuous years of stressful work for others leaves a great emptiness of peace for ourselves, which we make up for ourselves after we retire. At that time, we do not want to do anything but rest and take time for ourselves until we make up enough to feel recompensed.

I hope that after that, I will want to go back to being active and creative as well. I wish the best to all of you!

Comments for Addicted to Sleep

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Brand New Interpretation
by: Cathy

What a different interpretation on why some of us remain so still and sleep so much after retirement. You made me think of this in a whole new way.

You may like a lot of readers feel more at peace and less guilty over feeling so inactive. When you have worked for decades, it makes sense our beings need a complete break and well earned period of respite.
Speak with your doctor
by: Michael D. Bell, REALTOR®, Venice Florida and the Catskills in NY!!

Becky,

Speak with your doctor. I too enjoy sleeping, and no longer set the alarm clock. But, I think 12-14 hours seem to be a lot, and might be depression or another underlying medical condition that requires attention.

Good luck!

Michael
I Like Westerns Too!
by: Canadian Retiree

Hi Addicted to Sleep-

I don’t blame you for wanting to lounge around after 27 years. My husband worked graveyard shifts for 40 years and slept in for about 2 years after retiring. His job took a toll on his health.

I retired last year after battling breast cancer. I really wasn’t ready to yet and it’s been a roller coaster ride since but I’m getting used to it. I felt a tremendous amount of guilt for not trying to return to my job. I worked in a University bookstore for 20 years.

I did have a mental collapse and depression and anxiety and had to seek psychiatric help. I’m better now.

I share your love of western shows. I watch all the westerns on METV every Saturday. My favourites are Rawhide and Maverick.

Anyway if you are worried about being depressed go see your GP. I’m sure you will be okay.

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