Life begins at RETIREMENT

Retirement, like working, has its ups and downs. Initially, you will feel elated that you are retirement. After your initial fun and freedom were exhausted, the retiree may feel sad, lonely or depressed. The reality of retirement sets in. Or you could be upset about your health, your nest or even your weight.

What is depression? Everyone can be sad from time to time. However, if the sad feeling continues and does not go away, that's depression. You are always feeling sad. In fact, you play so many worrying games that you feel like falling into a bottomless pit. People who are depressed also lose interests in once-enjoyable activities, have problem sleeping and even thought of death or suicides to end it all. Your weight may increase as you adopt a 'don't care anymore' attitude. You may indulge in alcohol or even substance abuse. Here is a depression quiz you can take to help you determine if you may have depression.

What you should do? Even if you are unsure if you have depression, you should talk to someone like a family member, a friend or even your doctor. The warning signs of depression includes sadness, guilt, irritability, concentrating power, difficulty in remembering, sleeping problem, appetite changes or loss of energy or interests. Seek help.

Often talking to someone helps. There is no shame in seeking medical help either. Follow the advise of the doctor and you will soon be back to recovery to enjoy your retirement. Don't let depression hurt your retirement.