Retirement depression, often caused by the emotional challenges that accompany retirement, is a growing issue in India. People who once led dynamic lives filled with social interactions, daily routines, and a sense of purpose often struggle to adjust to the sudden and stark changes brought on by retirement.
Retirement comes with several benefits but also some challenges.
“Retirement, for many people, comes with feelings of emptiness, loneliness, and worthlessness, which can lead to clinical depression,” says Dr Aarti Anand, senior consultant – psychiatry, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi.
Retirement depression refers to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness experienced after retiring from active work life.
“Certain signs to recognise retirement depression include exhaustion or lack of motivation, along with generalised anxiety and having a persistent low mood,” says Nishtha Jain, counselling psychologist at the online mental health platform Lissun.
It is often caused by a lack of routine, reduced social interactions, and the sudden loss of a professional identity or purpose. Financial instability, health issues, and feelings of loneliness further exacerbate this condition, says psychologist at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru.
Retirement can take away the sense of purpose and self-worth, make you feel lost, and leave behind a void. Though there is no suggestive data, experts say there is an increase in retirement depression among Indians.
This retirement depression can lead to severe consequences, such as:
- Chronic physical health issues like hypertension and diabetes due to stress
- Cognitive decline, as reduced mental engagement impacts memory and problem-solving skills
- Social withdrawal, which may cause strained family relationships
- Increased risk of substance abuse or self-harm in severe cases
Retirement depression, however, can be prevented as well as managed.
The best way to prevent retirement depression is to have a thought-out action plan well before retiring. This action plan should include planning about finances, routines, hobbies, and investments after retirement.
o prevent retirement depression from affecting your or your parents’ lives, try having a plan ready. Here are a few expert-approved tips:
Plan ahead: Financial and emotional preparation for retirement.
Establish a routine: Stay active with hobbies, volunteer work, or part-time employment.
Social connections: Maintain and expand social networks to reduce loneliness.
Physical activity: Engage in regular exercise to improve mood and overall health.
Learn new skills: Pick up new hobbies or courses to maintain mental stimulation and purpose.
Meanwhile, having a good support system and staying well-connected with family and friends is also crucial.
