@cb772 I completely agree with @baz10. I'm also glad to see that you have connected with members in the Chronic Pain group (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/pain/) and the Depression & Anxiety group (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/depression-anxiety/).

I think you may be interested in these specific discussions:
- Depression and Anxiety at an older age https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/depression-and-anxiety-at-an-older-age/
- Pain and depression, the one two punch. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/pain-and-depression-the-one-two-punch/

Hello. Anxiety and depression can be caused by external things ( events, trauma, etc) or physical reasons, and sometimes by medication.
I’ve seen many times, people who are depressed, started on medications to make them “ feel better” or sleep due to insomnia.
Many medications can have side effects which complicate their problem. Opioids, benzodiazepines( Valium, Xanax) and antidepressants can lead to dependence as well. These must be tapered under a physicians care. It is dangerous to stop suddenly.
It is important instead of treating symptoms, to deal with what is causing your anxiety and depression.
Many times traumatic events, loneliness, and a feeling of lack of self worth happens to people who retire. Some let work define them. Some people( especially during this time) find social isolation depressing. It is important to keep contacts through other means( FaceTiming, phone calls, etc). I see you are an animal lover and that is a good thing!!
Medications can relieve symptoms, and cause side effects. Not getting enough sleep can open a Pandora’s box of problems. Not getting true sleep cycles which refresh your brain, get it into balance, another downfall. I will add that because of post menopausal issues, our sleep hormones, such as melatonin and others are not as great as they used to be. So feeling tired, getting to sleep, and staying asleep is sometimes harder at our age. Read about something called sleep hygiene when you can.
I would first see a good physician, and discuss why you feel anxious and sad. When did it start, did an event cause it, or is it linked to physical reasons.
Perhaps a good start. There are physical, psychological, and medications that can cause what you are feeling. First, find out why. It is better to treat a cause than a symptom. Make sense?
Talking out your feelings is a very healthy way to start. Many people share your feelings.
There are many solutions to one problem. Feeling overwhelmed can make the solutions seem unattainable, and bring about a hopeless feeling.
You are not hopeless. Please start with a good physician. Talk about what you are feeling. Never stop medications without professional help.
Feeling self worth comes from within. Take an inventory of your life and write the things you have accomplished and feel good about. I’ll bet your list is long. The list will grow as you find your perspective change.
Be your own advocate. See an excellent physician. Start at square one. Tell them everything you are feeling.
Finally, everyone’s life is valuable and priceless. It is never too late to realize that.
A great philosopher once said, in order to move a mountain, you must do it one stone at a time.
Start with one stone.....