Retirement is often painted as the ultimate reward after decades of hard work. But for many Americans, the emotional reality doesn’t match the dream.

In fact, about 75% of retirees say their experience didn’t live up to expectations. Beyond the financial planning, retirement also comes with hidden emotional costs that can take many by surprise.

Here are three common emotional hurdles retirees face—and how to navigate them with purpose.

1. The Loss of Professional Identity

For years, your career likely shaped your daily routine, your sense of purpose, and even your social status. Letting go of that identity can feel like losing a part of yourself.

Despite how movies portray it, retirement doesn’t always happen in a single, clean break. Many people ease into it over time, stepping in and out before fully letting go.

That’s why it’s important to prepare emotionally for this identity shift. Instead of focusing on what you’re leaving behind, turn your attention to what’s next. You might become a consultant, volunteer, start a new hobby, or even launch a small business. Retirement can be a second act—not a full stop.

2. The Shrinking of Social Circles

Your job probably gave you a built-in network of colleagues, mentors, and acquaintances. After leaving the workforce, that support system can shrink quickly.

This doesn’t have to lead to isolation. Retirement is the perfect time to reconnect with old friends, reach out to former coworkers, or build new relationships around shared interests. Joining clubs, taking classes, or participating in local events can help you form a new community and keep loneliness at bay.

3. A Higher Risk of Depression

Retirement doesn’t always feel like freedom. Studies show that retirees are twice as likely to experience depression compared to their peers who continue working.

This is especially true for those who are forced into retirement or didn’t plan for the lifestyle shift. The key is to approach retirement as a new phase of life, not an end.

Staying active—physically and mentally—can make a world of difference. Whether it’s yoga, walking, journaling, or volunteering, create new routines that give your days structure and meaning. This is also a great time to focus on personal growth, reconnect with loved ones, and rediscover passions that were set aside during your working years.

Retirement is more than a financial milestone—it’s a major life transition. By acknowledging the emotional shifts that come with it and preparing in advance, you can create a post-career life that’s just as rich and fulfilling as your working years.