Mental health challenges in retirement and ways to overcome them

5 min read 27 Mar 23

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Life after work can take some getting use to. The change in pace and purpose can stir up mixed emotions and place new-found pressures on mental health.

The M&G Wealth Retirement Revisited Report* has shown that 2 in 5 (42%) are concerned that they’ll be bored in retirement. Fear of loneliness in retirement affects 42%. And almost 1 in 4 (23%) are afraid that spending more time with their partner in retirement could lead to divorce or separation.

The current economic climate isn't helping. Basic items - such as food, clothing and fuel - have become more expensive. We're generally living longer too, leaving many wondering if their money will last. Understandably, this can have a detrimental affect on peace-of-mind, and in turn, physic health. After all, the two are closely linked. 

With so much to potentially contend with, it’s no surprise that many are struggling with anxiety and depression – serious conditions that affect millions of people across the world and are more common in older generations**.

Mental health issues used to be considered a taboo subject, and something that was not openly discussed. Thankfully, for the most part, that has now changed and there are plenty of advice and support options available, whatever your age.

*Retirement Revisited report by M&G Wealth, published Oct 22.

**Depression stats, World Health Organisation, here.

  1. Finding things tough emotionally? Get some support and talk about it. The sooner you tackle mental health issues the better. Talk with a friend or family member or see your GP. There’s no need to suffer in silence.
  2. Try to keep active. Choose an activity you enjoy that suits your level of fitness. A daily walk can boost your mood and your overall health. For those with mobility or more challenging health issues, the NHS has some useful information, for example, Pilates and yoga exercise videos suited to people with back pain.
  3. Stay social. It can make a world of difference to how you feel. Consider joining a local club or society which matches your interests. Or you could try something entirely new. Either way, meeting like-minded people could improve your outlook.
  4. Do some research. There are plenty of podcasts and books on making the most of later life, often covering everything from money to avoiding loneliness to staying healthy, helping you plan ahead for retirement so you can make the most of it when the time comes.
  5. Consider taking financial advice. It could help you feel more confident about the here and now, as well as the future. There may be something you could do to free up money, or budget better. If you don’t already have an adviser and would like to speak to someone, you can find a financial adviser that's right for you. Even if you’re already retired, it makes sense to review your finances regularly and take advice.

GPs: Doctors are well used to supporting people with mental health issues. They’ll listen, have knowledge of local support groups and can prescribe counseling, medication or both if need be. The NHS website has plenty of good advice too.

Age UK: The charity for people in later life has articles and videos on everything from coping with bereavement, to how physical health is linked to your mood. Age UK has a helpline offering support 365 days a year.

Samaritans support people with mental health issues 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Citizens Advice service can help with practical worries and has useful resources on the cost of living crisis.

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