Moving house can bring with it a range of different emotions. Sure, you may feel excited and looking forward to the change that living in a new house will bring. However, moving can also result in feelings such as stress, anxiety, and also grieving a place that you might have lived in for so many years. Be aware that all of what you are feeling during this experience is totally normal – moving is a major change in a person’s life and is considered to be one of the most stressful life events. In fact, research suggests that moving can be as stressful as a relationship ending or even losing a loved one.
There are various reasons why moving is considered so stressful. One of these is the financial aspect tied to moving. Whether you will be renting accommodation or buying your own house, there is no doubt that a change of house involves significant costs and this can bring with it a lot of stress and anxiety. Another reason why moving is so stressful is the time and effort involved in the process. From packing to unpacking, changing addresses and sorting out other logistics, settling into your new residence takes up a lot of your time and energy! But overall, we must not forget that change in itself is hard, and this is one of the main reasons why moving can be so stressful. You may be leaving behind a lot of memories and experiences tied to a particular place. The prospect of the ‘unknown’ also brings about a lot of uncertainty associated with moving house, hence why it can make the experience so anxiety-provoking. If you are currently embarking on this new chapter in your life or are soon going to be doing so, you may find the following tips helpful:
1. Get to know your new neighbourhood
Given the uncertainties associated with moving and the anxiety that this can bring about, it may be helpful to research your area in order to get to know your new surroundings. It may feel more reassuring to know where the nearest minimarket or pharmacy is, as well as other things like the post office, library, or restaurants in the area.
2. Plan ahead
With so much to do in a limited period of time, you may want to plan ahead and give yourself the time that you need when moving. It may not be realistic to move all your possessions and settle into your new place in just one weekend, so make sure to take some time off from work to prepare for your move. Creating a checklist of things to do can also support you in the process, for example, confirming the moving date, packing the essentials, and changing addresses.
3. Ask for support
Moving house may be difficult to do all by yourself but you don’t need to do it all on your own. Asking some family, friends, or even hiring movers can be very helpful to making your move much less stressful. You are going to need all the help you can get especially with lifting heavier stuff like boxes and furniture!
4. Take some time for yourself
Moving can be an exhausting experience, therefore, it is important to set aside some time to relax and take care of yourself during and especially after the move is done. Some tips may include; listening to music while packing, getting enough sleep and eating healthily, and promising yourself a nice reward after the move. And most importantly, don’t beat yourself up if the move is causing a lot of different emotions – be kind to yourself!
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Pamela Borg is a counsellor who enjoys working therapeutically with adults experiencing various issues. These include general mental health and wellbeing, gender, sexuality, relationship issues.
References:
DiMillo, R. (n.d.). Dealing with Moving Stress: Tips to Cope and Manage Anxiety. Retrieved from: https://www.lifestorage.com/blog/moving/moving-stress-and-anxiety
Foxie. (2020). How to Overcome the Stress and Anxiety of Moving. Retrieved from: https://www.foxie.com.au/blog/overcoming-stress-anxiety-moving-house
Green, J. (2021). 20 Ways to Handle the Stress of Moving. Retrieved from: https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/handle-stress-when-moving/