Anxious

by Lisa
(Oregon)

I retired three months ago from health care. I worked in a large well known hospital, performed hands on care with patients and collaborated with surgeons, cardiologists, a wide plethora of health care colleagues.

I moved to another state and love the new world I live in. However, I have felt increasingly anxious, feeling as though I need "to do" something, but conflicted because I am retired and do not "need" to do anything.

I feel caught on this never ending mental, emotional merry go round and my BP has gone up due to the stress.

Sometimes I sleep well, mostly I wake up feeling tense.

Comments for Anxious

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Anxious
by: Jan

I can completely sympathize with you, as I spent almost 50 years working in healthcare. I worked long hard hours in radiology and ultrasound, often working all day then being up all night on call just to return to work the next day. I was completely exhausted and ready to retire. That was in January of this year.

I also spent time thinking that I needed to be doing something but no idea what. I was also depressed and lonely.

Now almost a year in things have resolved and I have learned to go with the flow. Some days I am crazy busy but a lot of the time I am perfectly content to sit and read or watch the birds at the feeders.

Hang in there, you will find your own way.
Anxious
by: Debra Othman/Washington

Hello, I went through the very same thing. I also came from Healthcare and to go from a fast paced to an open day was such a shock to me. I felt fearful, anxious, had no idea what was my life now - it was terrible and it lasted for about 3 months or so for me.

I decided that I had to proactive so I became creative and found two jobs that I can do from home, started a womens club in my rural area and it was amazing how many women who were retired felt alone and were looking for activities, became the VP of travel group which starts in Jan 2019.

I decluttered my home, started doing some repairs on my home that had been put off, made my health my priority thru diet and exercise. Started to read for pleasure - made my motto to always say yes to every invitation.

You are not alone - this is a process that many people go through. I read that it can take from 1 - 4 years to adjust to retirement and I am finding it is true.

You have to take this on and create the life you want! Best Wishes!
Time Rich
by: Ro

I also am retired from a fast paced heath care job, we are used to interacting w patients, rapidly solving problems all day long.

I also had the emotional rollercoaster feelings, happy I did not have to work the hours, then feelings of anxiety upon awakening, missing being part of a team. I would become tearful.

The good news: this is a normal transition. These ups and downs go away as you get used to your new found freedom.

Having so much time for ourselves is new. I start walking, spending quality time w family, friends.
I am now "time rich!"

Be kind to yourself just as you were to your patients. Give your self time to adjust to your new life.
Anxious
by: Dave

Hi , I hope you realise that not working takes a lot of effort. We, as a species, are pre programmed to work and often feel guilty when we no longer provide or feel we provide less than we used too.

Being anxious or bored or a bit down are all common themes that run through your start too retirement but you should realise that you have worked a majority of your life from your early school days through higher education onto work and have always felt that being busy is important and it is too an extent .

However sometimes you need to relax kick back and smell the roses ,being worried or anxious is natural but so is happiness and loving life . Sometimes we just need to believe that life is for living and mot just working.

Good luck on your new job which is living life too the full.
Anxious
by: Marcia/PA

It sounds like you have some great skills that could be put to use by volunteering your time to any number of organizations. AARP has listings of available volunteering positions all over the US. Just type in your zip code and you will see many opportunities. There are other charities that could probably put your talents to good use as well.

When my husband passed away I began volunteering at the local hospital at the information desk. Then I got involved with two organizations where I became their newsletter editor and secretary. It gave me something to look forward to and I made many new friends as well.

The first step is deciding to do it. The second step is making the call.

Good luck and stay positive.
Anxious
by: Sherry/ NC

We are all put here on earth to help others. Go help someone!

The world needs you!

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