Embracing strength: Depression is not a "life sentence"

Depression is not a "life sentence". 

Depression affects millions of people. Retirement is a major life decision. Facing depression during retirement can be a difficult and challenging experience for many seniors. 

With the loss of the daily routine, structure, and social connections that accompany a full-time job, loss of clear goals and objectives, it can be easy to experience feelings of loneliness, sadness, and even despair. 

"Depression feels grey, like you're under a huge dark cloud and heavy, like you are walking around carrying heavy weights. It also brings negative thoughts about yourself, about others, and about your future."  (Source: "6 New, Holistic Ways To Treat Depression Without Medication".) 


You're not alone

Mistakes don't define your worth. 

"Life gets messy, things go sideways, and it’s crucial to remember that it’s okay not to have it all together. The habit of self-kindness involves recognizing that making mistakes doesn’t define your worth and understanding that it’s alright to have off days." (Source: Night Helper Blog. "How We Can Dodge Depression".) 

Being active / Healthy Lifestyle.

Healthy lifestyle that includes exercise (has a positive effect on mood and can be a great way to keep the body and mind healthy), healthy diet (including proper nutrition), healthy body weight, adequate sleep.  

Allow yourself to be seen, supported, and cared for by friends and loved ones. 

...who are positive. Stay connected to family and friends.  Reaching out to loved ones can help to ease feelings of loneliness and provide needed social support. 

Set achievable goals.  

This might involve finding a meaningful hobby or activity can be a great way to stay active and engaged.  It could also include setting, small daily goals. 

Gratitude. 

Make a list of what you are grateful for.  You will be even more grateful and your list will grow. 

"Toss the bad stuff". 

Journaling.  

"Depression can leave you obsessed over your past choices or have you worrying about what the future will bring. Journaling those feelings can help keep you in the present and possibly reframe them in a more positive way."  (Source: MSN.com. The 12 Best Ways To Cope With Depression (That Aren't Medication) (msn.com))

Uplifting Music. 

Uplifting music can provide encouragement, inspiration, and distraction.  Music can be streamed for free on Pandora. 

Depression is treatable.  

You're not alone.  Reach out for help.  Therapy can empower individuals to manage symptoms, promote mental well-being, and find hope in the face of depression's challenges. There is no need to "fight depression alone".  

"Overcoming depression is a process that may take time, and what works for one person may not work for another. Work closely with a healthcare professional to create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances."  (Source: reconnectcenter.com) 


Embracing Strength Quotes  

(Source: The Depression Project)

"Healing is a process, not an event. Give it time. Good things happen to those who never give up."  

"Life is like a camera: focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, take another shot."  

"One of the most dangerous myths surrounding depression is that it is a life sentence, when in reality, if you seek the right help and keep on fighting, you CAN recover, and live a happy, healthy, depression-free life." 


Call to Action: Retirement is filled with both joy and challenges

Retirement is a major life transition that can be filled with both joy and challenges. Facing depression during this stage of life can be difficult, but by embracing strength to stay physically active, connected to others, setting achievable goals, reaching out for help, we can make the most of our retirement and experience a happier and more fulfilling life.


RESOURCES THAT MIGHT BE HELPFUL...

Helpguide.org.  Coping with Depression - HelpGuide.org

7 Things Everyone Should Know About Depression. Who's at risk, common symptoms, and how to get help and ease the pain.  AARP.  7 Things Everyone Should Know About Depression (aarp.org)

7 Ways Exercise Can Boost Your Mental Health. Studies find exercise improves your mood, helps depression and eases anxiety.  AARP.  Exercise and Mental Health: 7 Mood-Boosting Benefits (aarp.org)



  Photo: D. McCallister.  Big Island, Hawaii


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