Allison LoPilato is an Assistant Professor in the Emory Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, where she serves as the Director of the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic and Co-Director of the Child & Adolescent Mood Program. Dr. LoPilato's clinical research program focuses on leveraging advances in computational models (e.g., reinforcement learning) and ambulatory assessment (e.g., EMA, passive sensing) to identify new intervention targets for youth mood disorders and suicide risk. She holds a K23 Career Development Award from the National Institute of Mental Health and is the lead investigator on several foundation grants for youth anxiety and depression.
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7 Key Steps To Face Retirement Anxiety-Free
- Allison LoPilato PhD LCSW ABPP
- Oct 1, 2025
- 3
1. Assess Your Finances Early
If you have anxiety about your financial situation during retirement, one of the best things you can do is have a clear understanding of your financial situation and plan for your financial future. Being able to visualize where you stand will give you a clear picture of what’s achievable and reduce financial stress. Working with a finance or accounting professional can be a great place to start.
2. Plan for Healthcare Needs
Healthcare is one of the biggest sources of anxiety for retirees, especially as medical expenses can rise with age. Research your health insurance options and determine whether you need supplemental coverage. We all benefit from knowing we have a ‘safety net,’ whether that be additional health insurance or savings, reliable and trustworthy healthcare professionals, or an extended network of support to call upon if we get sick.
3. Stay Active and Healthy
Physical and mental health are fundamental for a happy retirement, and it’s never too late to make small changes to improve your health. Consider how to make exercise a part of your daily routine — find a gentle, enjoyable activity like walking, swimming, or yoga and start incorporating it into your life now. Support your health and fitness goals with a nutritious diet.
4. Stay Socially Connected
Social isolation can be a major trigger for a variety of different mental health disorders during retirement. Nurture connections with friends and family and seek out new relationships through clubs, classes, or volunteer work.
5. Simplify Your Life
Retirement is a great time to declutter and simplify. This might involve downsizing your home, letting go of unnecessary possessions, or organizing your finances. Simplification not only feels satisfying, but it can also allow you to focus more on enjoying things like time with family, hobbies, and travel.
6. Consider Part-Time or Flexible Work
Some retirees choose to continue working during their retirement and take up either part-time work or do odd jobs. This can provide a sense of meaning, purpose, or social connection. If this resonates with you, look into ways to continue engaging in work that aligns with your interests.
7. Find a Greater Purpose
If your main purposes in life for the last several decades have centered around a career or raising children, retirement is a great opportunity to diversify the sources of fulfillment in your life. Volunteering, mentoring, or furthering your own personal development are great places to start.
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