I was forced out of the workforce by an on-the-job-injury. I was a professional pilot for 42 years and was very active traveling all over the world with a pretty hectic lifestyle. I had multiple hobbies and a very active social life. When I injured my back, the slow physical decline along with multiple surgeries caused me to eventually fail my FAA flight physical. All of the pilot certificates and ratings in the world are absolutely useless without a valid medical certificate. I was grounded in the space of about two years from date of injury and eventually was medically retired from my dream job of a lifetime. Of course depression set in and at first it was mild. After about 6 months it because overwhelming causing me to seek out a mental health doctor. He diagnosed me with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Having an actual name for my depression validated my emotions, but did nothing to alleviate my condition. When I went out I no longer had a uniform indicating my profession for all to see. Instead, I wore a tee-shirt and baggy pants. Everywhere I went I felt invisible. Being in my 60's many younger people scurried around me (being more agile) to get to the front of checkout lines because they actually had a schedule and a JOB! Because I was unable to do the hobbies I once enjoyed (SCUBA, etc.), I decided to use my life experience to help younger people who were struggling with academics. I also help veterans apply for their disability benefits from the Veterans Administration (VA). And, I volunteer as a poll worker during national elections. Bottom line... I had to switch gears and get in the right mindset, quit my "pity-party" and redirect my energy into helping others. Hope this helps someone!