The Psychology of Moving Home: how to cope with this major change

Sometimes a move is viewed with excitement and anticipation. But more often than not, it holds the potential to become a fairly traumatic experience - exhausting, confusing, and full of trepidation. However you view it, it is one of life's most significant transitions, and the psychological impact can be profound.  So it's important to find steps around the move, to prepare, and to process each step with calm purpose and focused management.

The emotions of moving

If you're looking forward to a change, then positive emotions can certainly fuel your motivation to plan, organise, and pack. There's promise and anticipation in the air. Well, that's a good scenario. However, as the moving day approaches, many people experience anxiety and stress. The uncertainty of the new environment, leaving behind familiar faces and routines, not to mention the logistical challenges of the move can all contribute to feelings of being overwhelmed and pressurised.

Leaving your old home can also trigger feelings of sadness and grief. You may mourn the memories associated with your old space, your neighbours, and the sense of familiarity and belonging. However, once the move is complete and you've settled into your new home, feelings of relief and elation can set in. You can find ways to adapt to your new surroundings, meet new people, and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Learn ways to cope if moving is impacting you negatively

Plan and prepare: If you have the opportunity to plan in advance, this is a huge benefit. Create a checklist, establish a timeline, and break down tasks into manageable steps. The more organised you are, the less stress you'll experience. Don't try and do too much in too short space of time. This can cause exhaustion, depression, and feelings that you're not coping.

Be aware of emotions: Also be aware that you are going to experience some strong emotions, one way or another. It's crucial to acknowledge these feelings, don't suppress sadness or anxiety. Keep talking about the way you feel with friends, family, or even a therapist if you feel you need objective help. Recognising your feelings can help you accept and process them more effectively. And as much as possible, try to maintain your normal daily routines during the transition. Consistency can provide a sense of stability amidst the chaos of moving.

Maintain connections: Often when you move, you are leaving behind friends and family. So moving can be an isolating experience because you are leaving behind your main support network. Make an effort to stay connected with friends and loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or visits. Social support is crucial during times of change. Personalise your new home as soon as possible by surrounding yourself with familiar items that help you feel more comfortable and at ease. In this way, you create a sense of belonging.

See your move as an opportunity for growth: Once you are settled, explore your new neighbourhood; familiarise yourself with local amenities, parks, and places of interest. This can help you feel more connected to your new home. If you focus on the move as disruptive, you will introduce a negative attitude. Instead, embrace change as an opportunity for personal growth. New environments can provide fresh experiences, challenges, and opportunities for self-discovery.

Moving with children - the family trek

• Moving can be particularly challenging for children, as it disrupts their routines and can lead to feelings of insecurity. So it's important to prime your children for the move well before time. Answer their questions honestly and reassure them that you'll be there to support them throughout the process - and involve them in the planning and decision-making as much as possible.

• Let them have a say in their new room's decoration, or which belongings they want to bring with them. Bringing familiar items from the old home to the new one, such as their favourite toys or bedding can help to provide a sense of comfort and continuity. Keep routines as consistent as possible during the move and afterward. Consistency promotes feelings of security.

• It may be difficult in the beginning. Children will be full of trepidation about starting a new school and meeting new faces. Don't push them on this, let them settle and find their feet before organising playdates and various social activities to establish and build connections that will gradually make them feel more confident and more at home.

It's essential to recognise and address the emotions moving can evoke, both for your own well-being and that of your family. By planning, seeking support, and adopting coping strategies, you can successfully navigate the psychological challenges of moving; eventually, a sense of belonging and contentment will grow in your new home. And as you adjust and adapt, you will in tandem develop a more positive outlook on your new life. Make moving an experience you can manage, a goal for good, and ultimately a goal for happiness.