How to Overcome Retirement Depression

According to Seniors Love to Know, approximately 1000 people a day move to Florida, and the majority of those people move into retirement communities. Retirement communities draw people with their golf courses, community centers, and Olympic sized swimming pools. Yet, some are not happy. They find activities to do, but still, they are depressed. Once you find a sense of belonging and worth, the depression can lift and retirement can be the best years of your life.

Things You'll Need

• College course listings
• Journal
• Exercise plan

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Instructions

• 1

  Volunteer your time. When you retire, you may find yourself losing self-esteem or self worth because you think you have nothing to give back to society. Volunteering helps you feel needed and satisfied because you are giving to others.

• 2

  Socialize. Find a social network, such as church, a book club or an organization for seniors and participate.

• 3

  Start a hobby. Some retirees were so busy while working that they never explored hobbies. This is now the opportunity to learn a new skill or become involved in a craft, so you can expand your world of creativity.

• 4

  Go back to school. Universities and community colleges have classes especially designed for seniors. If those classes don't exist, take a class in any subject that interests you.

• 5

  Improve your health with a daily exercise program. Consider joining a group that walks every day. Get a pet and take it for walks. Go for bike rides. Join the YMCA or YWCA and go swimming. Plant a garden. Exercise does not have to be joining a gym. Do what you like to do.

• 6

  Keep a gratitude journal. Spend time each day reflecting on all the positive elements of your life, such as your children, grandchildren, your health, and your friends. If you saw a bluebird, write it down. If you helped a person, write it down. Positive reflections help lift you out of depression.