“It’s fascinating that people count the days until they retire, and then realize it can be a very difficult adjustment,” says Jamie Winters, LCSW, Senior Primary Therapist at Princeton House’s North Brunswick outpatient site. “It’s almost as if life’s puzzle is thrown into the air, and the pieces don’t come down in the same place. Retirement may mean losing a few pieces of that puzzle, which can sometimes result in depression, anxiety, or grief.”
According to Winters, one key to a successful transition is to determine how to replace those puzzle pieces—including mental stimulation, socialization, physical activity, and purpose—in creative ways. She offers the following tips for behavioral health providers working with patients who are approaching or struggling with retirement.
Identify cope-ahead strategies. Discuss what retirement might look like before the big day arrives. Some people may want to plan for a gradual transition rather than a sudden stop by maintaining a part-time role or serving as a consultant.
Build in structure. Without the built-in structure that work provides, there’s more time for ruminating on the regrets of the past and the “what-ifs” of the future. Structure can help people live in the moment and make the most of the time they have each day. Retirees should consider identifying a purpose for three key parts of each day: something to get them up in the morning, such as a volunteer role; something to look forward to in the afternoon, like a walk or hobby; and something to close out the evening, such as a favorite meal or a good book.
Limit news intake. When at home, it’s easy to fall into the habit of keeping the TV on. But because news can be a constant, repetitive cycle of troubling information—especially during the pandemic—it’s best for retirees to limit news intake to once each day, which would include reading the morning paper.
Get creative. Retirement can provide the opportunity to explore new interests. Seeking out how to bring a zest for life into later years can promote better mental health.
Check in frequently. As people age, it’s common to experience other losses, including in overall physical health and the loss of friends and family members. Check in often on how retirees are coping overall with this new stage of life.
“Everyone talks about being financially ready for retirement, but we don’t focus as much on the mental aspects,” adds Winters. “We’re always making transitions in life. Being mindful about the related challenges can help us better enjoy what life has to offer in each new chapter.”
Princeton House’s outpatient Senior Link program, available via telehealth three to five days a week, serves adults ages 60 and older. To learn more, visit princetonhouse.org/seniors. To refer a patient, call 888.437.1610.
Article as seen in the Winter 2022 issue of Princeton House Behavioral Health Today.
