Why Moving is So Stressful (And 3 Things You Can Do About It)

The simple thought of packing up everything and moving to a new country, a new neighborhood, or a new house, can be exciting. Moving from one place and beginning a new life someplace else is an opportunity that most yearn for, especially if they have been living in dire circumstances.

But as exciting as it is to start afresh, moving to a place you are unfamiliar with can turn out to be nerve-wracking. Thus, it is referred to as the emotional stress of moving. In other words, shifting to a new location can bring about a mix of overwhelming emotions, which often triggers moving stress.

dragana991/Getty Images

Is It Normal To Feel The Emotional Stress Of Moving?

Why is moving so stressful? Should it not feel like a fresh start that allows you to make a healthy change and leave a distressing past behind? The important thing to know is that moving itself is not triggering your anxiety. Instead, various factors cause you to feel overwhelmed by moving.

Embracing Change

Once you decide to move, you need to get used to the idea that you will have a new house, be in a new city, or perhaps even have a new job. As a result, you will meet different people and make new friends. While some people look forward to changing, others do not welcome it with open arms.

There is nothing wrong with feeling anxiety about changes. Consequently, it is normal to experience new home stress.

Spending Money

There are several things that you need to consider when moving, which also include money. It has been deemed one of the most common causes of moving stress. You cannot deny that packing up everything and shifting someplace else can be costly, despite having a minimalist lifestyle.

Even if you have the financial resources needed to move, starting afresh will undoubtedly take a toll on your pocket.

Limiting Time

Perhaps you feel so overwhelmed by moving these days that you have decided to press pause on your life. When this happens, you focus all your energy and attention on a fresh start, which can result in moving stress.

In addition, you need ample time to pack all your belongings and settle down into a new place, whether the move is domestic or international.

The Symptoms Of Moving Stress

Time and time again, people talk about why moving is so stressful and causes emotional distress. Remember that stress can become detrimental only when it is uncontrollable and unbearable for you.

Below are several symptoms that indicate you are overwhelmed by moving.

• You find it challenging to relax
• You do not enjoy being in other people’s company
• You are easily triggered and overwhelmed
• You feel unproductive and depressed

Effect Of Moving Stress On Physical And Mental Health

New home stress can also result in physical and mental distress. Here are some symptoms of this condition.

• Insomnia
• Headache
• Chest pain
• Poor immunity
• Aching in various body parts
• Uncontrollable shaking
• Lack of organization
• Poor focus
• Inability to make sound decisions
• Negative thinking
• Forgetfulness
• Constant worrying

How To Minimize Moving Stress

The physical and emotional stress of moving can occur due to the fear of the unknown. Moving to a new place can turn out to be terrifying and cause you to become anxious. In order to deal with this plethora of feelings, below are some things you can do.§  Plan In Advance

Why is moving so stressful for people who start packing at the last minute? It is because they have not planned properly in advance. Moving is a significant and life-changing process. Thus, it requires ample time and effort from you.

You need to think about all the details in advance and plan accordingly. Here are some things that you should do.

• Take some time off work
• Hire a removal company well in advance
• Come up with ideas to move with your pets
• Undergo a deep clean
• Cancel any bills that come to your current home
• Set up essentials at your new place, such as WIFI, water, electricity, and gas.
• Change the address for delivery of important mail

Focus On The Bright Side

Another way to prevent feeling overwhelmed by moving is to fight off the negative thoughts and focus your energy on the positives of your fresh start. Possible aspects are listed below.

• You could be moving near family and friends
• You will have the opportunity to forge new bonds
• The commute between your home and work may be shorter
• You will have the chance to experience a new place or culture
• Your new garden may have more sunlight than the current one

Ask For Help

Whether hiring a removal company or asking your loved ones, help is required to deal with moving stress. Below are some ways in which you can make your life easier.

• Allow your loved ones to help in cleaning and packing in return for free dinner
• Accept your neighbors’ help if they offer
• Let a professional and reputable company carry out the packing, lifting, as well as loading on your behalf

Whatever the situation may be, shifting to a new house can become stressful, especially if you are not prepared in advance. Use the tips above to make the process easier and minimize moving stress.