So you have just landed a new job in another state. Or maybe you have decided to move closer to your family. No matter the reason for your move, the process is bound to bring some unavoidable challenges. While thinking of obstacles or complications, one might think of time constraints or financial limitations associated with moving. However, one prime issue faced by the majority of people is ‘moving blues.’
Moving to another area can be exciting as it opens up an array of opportunities like meeting interesting people or redecorating your new home. Nevertheless, shifting can be a drastic change, especially to risk-averse people or those not fond of changes. So what is causing this sadness? How can one minimize it or get rid of it? Read on to learn more.
Fear of the New
The process of moving is bound to cause stress. However, a prime cause of these blues is the fear of the unknown. It may be the fear of settling in a new place or interacting with strangers. Or maybe you have the anxiety of leaving your everyday routine. Or you might be dreading the move itself and the various tasks or chores that need to be catered to before moving.
How to overcome:
To mitigate the fear of experiencing something new, planning and organizing ahead of the stressful event is recommended. When it comes to relocating, make a plan of action that will help you ensure that everything rolls out smoothly and there are fewer delays. Amid the relocation process, you’ll be puzzled with which possessions you must keep, which to donate, and which to throw out. Fortunately, you can use storage units to keep your belongings secure while transitioning to the new place. If your move is within or near Fort Worth, Texas, approach Storage Fort Worth TX, to store your belongings in a highly secure and reliable environment. Storage spaces can help you organize and adequately care for your belongings, particularly fragile items.
Differences in Culture
You are more likely to experience a different culture if you are shifting internationally. It would include being exposed to a new set of traditions, values, ethics, and maybe language altogether. Even moving within states or cities can make you go through a certain degree of cultural difference. Thus, it is natural to experience a cultural shock. In such circumstances, one might experience a period of confusion or isolation.
How to overcome:
Do your research. Learn more about the area that will be your new home. How are the people like in the area? What entertainment or other activities are available? Where is the downtown area? The more you know, the more you’ll be prepared to cope with the changes. A great way to adjust to a new locality is by getting involved in charities or community events. A quick search on Yelp can show the top public places to visit for someone unfamiliar with the area. It provides ample opportunities for a newcomer to interact and feel more at home.
Facing a Challenging Situation
Depression is likely to be heightened if the reason for relocation is not a pleasant one. Maybe you lost a job and can no longer afford the current rent. Or maybe losing a loved one or divorce puts you in a difficult spot. Thus, given the situation, one might have to shift to a more affordable or suitable place. The added stress of relocation can negatively affect the state of mind.
How to overcome:
Understand your symptoms well and seek help promptly if things don’t seem under control. Reach out to a support group to help you cope with the challenging situation and make relocation easier. Participating in an online support group is an excellent idea to consider as well. Smart Recovery is one example of an online group that helps individuals learn coping techniques and provides a 24-hour support forum.
Leaving Your Support System
Humans are highly dependent on friends and family to provide emotional support. However, both favorable or unfavorable circumstances may force you to shift to a place that puts you at a distance from your loved ones. The thought of not meeting your social circle for days or even months at a stretch can be highly depressing.
How to overcome:
Discuss ways to keep in touch with your friends and family regularly. Go through work and leisure schedules together to take time out to catch up with each other, whether in person or via a phone call. Mobile applications and social media platforms like Facebook can be your best ally when it comes to being virtually present for your close ones. Scheduling a video call or creating online chat groups with your social circle can keep you updated about each other’s lives.
Letting Go of Routine
Most people seek a sense of stability and routine in their daily lives. There might be certain habits linked to your current surroundings that you are attached to, consciously or unconsciously. Maybe you have a favorite route that you take to commute to work? Or perhaps a local coffee shop where you go to unwind. Letting go of these behaviors that over the years have become part of your routine might seem unsettling.
How to overcome:
Try to incorporate most of your old habits into your new routine. Discover what aspects of your previous practice you particularly enjoyed doing, for instance, taking a stroll in the park or reading a book before going to bed. Sticking to these habits will provide you with a sense of familiarity and make the relocation less stressful.
Conclusion
Whether you have decided to move locally or internationally, the process can be tedious as well as stressful. If the decision to shift results in sadness or depression, you are experiencing what is commonly known as ‘moving blues.’ Understanding why you are experiencing these blues is the first step that will help you overcome them. It is always helpful to hire professional help from movers or storage companies to handle the tasks and chores of moving. Seeking assistance from support groups or your social circle can also help in reducing the magnitude of stress. Moreover, it is always best to interact with new people such as neighbors or join a local community group when adjusting to a new place.