Have you found yourself reflecting on a career of hard work, maybe you’ve raised children who have recently promoted you to grandparents, and your weekends are spent planning how to spend your golden years, the ones you’ve worked so hard to enjoy. But as with any big life change, after the honeymoon phase subsides it can be difficult to find the right path, and it’s not uncommon for feelings of excitement to, at times, be overcome with anxiety.
Adjusting to Retirement
Many of us have spent the majority of our lives working, raised in a world where we left school and threw ourselves straight into a career and raised a family, leading a life with a clear structure and daily routine. For most retirees, this makes adjusting to retirement a somewhat difficult process. The decades of routine that once felt familiar are all of a sudden relaxed, and without the guide of a 9-5, it’s not uncommon for retirees to feel as though they have lost a sense of purpose.
During the change, many retirees experience mental health issues, expressing symptoms of depression and anxiety after leaving the workforce, often caused by the loss of identity, structure, and social connections. Research finds that 1 in 3 retirees transitioning into retirement display increased symptoms of retirement depression, with rates higher in those who were coping with the stress of an unexpected retirement.
Maintaining Physical and Mental Health
Dealing with retirement or any major life change can take a toll on your physical and mental health. It’s important to look after yourself and be aware of the signs you, friends or ones close to you are struggling with the challenges of retirement.
It’s essential to understand that retirement is a process, and it may take time to adjust. Many new retirees consider new hobbies they’d like to explore, places they’d like to visit, or locations they’d like to live.
Get enough quality sleep, eat a healthy diet, watch how much you drink, and keep challenging your brain to keep your body and mind healthy. Find healthy ways to get yourself out of the house; regular physical activity encourages better mental and physical health, and it stimulates endorphins that reduce stress and anxiety.
While there’s no one specific way to beat the retirement blues, a study published in 2023 indicates that those who stay active during the transition can cope better with the challenges and stresses of the new chapter.
Building a Fulfilling Retirement
Retirement doesn’t need to be all-or-nothing; many people find that it can help to gradually transition into full-time retirement. Finding a part-time job as you enter retirement can provide purpose and a sense of accomplishment. The time spent when not working can be used to plan your ideal retirement lifestyle. If you decide to return to part-time work after retirement, you’ll need to familiarise your superannuation obligations; you can find more on this in our recent blog.
Volunteering at a charity or local community centre can be a great way to meet like-minded people while filling up your days with purpose and social interaction. Remember, you’re never too old to learn something new! Consider taking an adult education class or joining a community group to stay engaged, learning new skills in your later years is even proven to reduce symptoms of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Retirement villages are a great choice for those looking for ways to create their version of a fulfilling lifestyle. Many are home to on-site amenities, from lawn bowls and swimming pools to clubhouses where you’re able to make new friends and attend community events. At St Ives, our annual Happiness Report states that 94% of our resident retirees are happy with the relationship they have with their neighbours, and 82% can lead an active lifestyle.
If you feel you are struggling to cope with the new phase, talk to a mental health professional who specialises in retirement adjusting. They’ll be able to provide you with a plan of action and much-needed coping skills to navigate a difficult time.
Thriving in Retirement
Retirement brings a huge life adjustment, and it’s okay to ask for help if you’re feeling lost or stuck. Reach out to a mental health expert if you’re feeling depressed or need guidance. Prioritise yourself; you’ve probably had time the majority of your time prioritising your children, your family and friends and your career. But now you’ve got more time on your hands to focus on your well-being and take a moment to relax and recharge. Remember that it’s okay to take things one step at a time and focus on your own needs.