insideLHSC: Helping retired men find new meaning in life
The average Canadian works 35 to 40 hours per week. Work can have a major impact on a person’s identity as it provides a sense of routine, social interaction and meaningful activity.
This can make retirement a daunting experience. While retirement can be challenging for both sexes, men tend to have greater difficulty in forming relationships and interests outside of the workplace. Overwhelmed by free time, some feel disconnected, putting them at risk for depression.
Dr. Marnin Heisel, a clinical psychologist and scientist at Lawson Health Research Institute, is leading an innovative study to address this issue. With funding from Movember Canada, Dr. Heisel and his colleagues are facilitating community-based men’s groups for those concerned about the transition into retirement.