Psychology suggests the reason retirement feels like grief for so many people isn't weakness - it's because purpose, structure, and identity were all bundled into one thing called a job, and losing the job means losing all three at once - Silicon Canals

"Work provided me with three essential elements: purpose, structure, and identity. Purpose came from knowing I was needed to solve problems. Structure organized my days, dictating when I worked, ate, and rested. My identity was tied to being an electrician, which shaped how I interacted with the world."

"Cynthia Vejar Ph.D. states, 'When work is lost through layoffs, retirement, illness, situational factors, or unexpected life changes, the grief that follows can feel both overwhelming and invisible.' This encapsulates the emotional turmoil many face when transitioning out of a long-held career."

"The loss of work is often unacknowledged by society. Unlike other life changes, retirement doesn't come with visible markers of grief, such as flowers or casseroles, yet the emotional impact is profound and can leave individuals feeling isolated."

Retirement can result in a significant loss of purpose, structure, and identity for individuals who have dedicated decades to their careers. The routine of work provides a sense of direction and fulfillment, as well as a clear identity tied to one's profession. When this routine is abruptly removed, individuals may experience feelings of grief and disorientation, akin to losing a part of themselves. The emotional impact of retirement is often overlooked, leaving many to navigate their new reality without the support typically offered during other life transitions.

Read at Silicon Canals