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In an interview with the Civil Service Newsletter before his retirement last year, Johnsman Au Chung-man (former deputy director of audit who hanged himself) mentioned that retirement was as inevitable in life as death and tax. These words unfortunately boded ill for his destiny. The cause of his suicide was still unknown. No suicide note was found and his family has ruled out financial problems. His family members noticed that he displayed signs of depression and sudden weight loss in recent months. It is not sure whether he had difficulties in coping with retirement life and eventually developed a phobia. An expert suggests that caring and accommodating family members can take pressure off retirees and help them cope with everyday life at an early stage.
As a clinical psychologist points out, although there is no such thing as “retirement phobia” in medical terms, some people will be under tremendous pressure brought about by dramatic changes in life when they face retirement.
Some retirees will feel that they are no longer respected when their income diminishes and their social status declines; a sense of inferiority gradually grows in them. Some who have stopped working in the day time and have difficulties fitting in may see themselves as a burden to their families and so lose a sense of worth. Clinical psychologists advise people who plan to retire to get better prepared, both financially and psychologically, and make appropriate arrangements beforehand in order to adapt to retirement life.
Besides, family members need to apprehend the feelings of emptiness and aimlessness experienced by the retirees, and should try to be accommodating and comforting. The family should also help the retirees to expand their social circles and offer financial assistance as and when necessary.
On 7 December, 2006, an over-60-year-old retired taxi driver attempted suicide by cutting his wrist at home in Shau Kei Wan. The old man had suffered from hypertension and retired as advised by the doctor. It was suspected that he developed “retirement phobia” while being idle at home. He suffered from acute weight loss and tried to kill himself due to a lack of self esteem. Fortunately, he was saved as his wife discovered the suicide and called the police. ■Translated by 開明
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