Retirement is often seen as a well-earned break—a chance to rest and enjoy life after years of work. However, growing research shows that this life transition can also bring challenges, particularly in terms of mental health and cognitive well-being.
A recent article published in La Tercera addressed these concerns and highlighted the work of Dr. Antonia Díaz-Valdés, professor at the Center for Society and Health (CISS) at Universidad Mayor, and Dr. Christina Sellers from Simmons University.
Their study, published in the journal Aging and Mental Health, analyzed data from over 27,000 Americans over the age of 50 across a 14-year period. The research explored the relationship between retirement, alcohol consumption, and depressive symptoms. The findings revealed that retired individuals face a higher risk of developing depression compared to those who remain in the workforce.
According to Dr. Díaz-Valdés, one explanation for this may be the loss of identity tied to one’s professional role: “People often define themselves by the roles they play—especially work, which tends to be long-lasting and deeply impactful. When they stop working, that identity is lost, which often leads to a stressful adjustment period,” she explained.
La Tercera also emphasized the importance of staying active during retirement—through reading, physical activity, learning new hobbies, and engaging in social activities—as key strategies to promote mental well-being during this stage of life.
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