I had to retire (due to ill health) about a year ago. Despite try to keep busy (a couple of days a week volunteering) I am becoming more depressed about my situation - I feel bored and lonely! Any advice?
Hi Cathy L, I feel for you. When I retired ( many moons ago) I did quite a few online courses. There are some interesting short ones around but there are also quite a few ‘in person’ courses . I haven’t looked but e.g ‘University of the Third Age’ does a few. Also - have you looked for any local MS Society Groups? I haven’t been to the one in my area but they meet up for coffees, chats and meals. Have a look on the Society’s local support page. I’m sort of lucky that one of my ‘hobbies’ is birdwatching and there is an RSPB reserve nearby with a sort of cafe where ‘birders’ meet and generally chat. Worth looking for local groups for any hobbies you might have?
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Hi Cathy,
I can’t offer much positive advice sorry as I too am feeling very depressed just now. MS sucks.
I do however think that it’s great that you do work experience. Not something I’ve felt able to do myself but want to try at some point.
I have done some online courses which have been very good.
Take care,
Gill
Hi @CathyL
Welcome. I had to retire on 13 March this year, due to medical reasons unfortunately, at a grand age of 43.
It has been suggested to try my hand at volunteering, but it’s challenging due to the MS fatigue, though I am trying to rebuild my stamina everyday.
I think in the immediate, rejoining the staff choir one day is an option, but still waiting for my thyroidectomy, which may also be contributing to the fatigue.
Hope you too can find a group activity or past time, bordom and lonliness is not conducive to well being.
Best,
JP
Thanks for this Hank_Dogs.
An online course is a good idea. At leat it will stop me thinking about myself for a while!! 
I use ‘Future Learn’ but there are other services around.
Future Learn used to have some ‘Mindfulness’ courses from Monash University but I think these have stopped. The courses were my first experience of Mindfulness (and its benefits) . Amongst other things , it’s very soothing and switches off the mind .
There are loads of courses on just about everything and I think all of them include the ability to make and share comments
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Maybe try joining some local hobby groups or online courses it’s a great way to meet new people and keep your mind active.
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