Retirement: Men suffer boredom,loss of identity, studies say

John is a successful family man: Married for 25 years, he supported his family as a truck driver, always on the road. In his last year before retirement, he dreamed of being at home, improving his guitar skills, jamming with his brother.

Then, a retired friend tells him: “Don’t be surprised that there is nothing to do. Winter is the worst. It is so boring.”

So this is how retirement is? Boring? Disappointing? Aimless?

For many men, boredom is first and depression is second. It may come as a surprise because they were looking forward to free time. According to a 2012 study by University of California, men experience satisfaction the first year followed by a steep decline. In fact, a 2013 study showed that retirement alone increased the probability of depression in men by 40 percent.

Lindsay Greene, author of “Ready to Retire? What You and Your Spouse Need to Know About the Reality of Retirement,” writes that the happiest retirees have multiple selves — hobbies and activities that keep them busy.

Some psychologists say the happiest retirees are those who spent the last three years before retirement hating their job. While they inevitably lose their identity as the breadwinner, at least they don’t go back to the hated grind. But, for those who love their job, it’s probably best to ease into retirement. Either work part time at your job before official retirement or take a part-time job.

Either way, in retirement men (and women) need social relationships, scheduled activities, and meaning.