How to Deal with the Stress of Moving

Moving to a new home can be a happy, exciting time, but it can create mega-stress. Some people sail through moves with little or no anxiety. Others reach stress levels that, according to healthcare professionals, are similar to going through a divorce or even a death in the family.

If you’re overwhelmed with preparing for a move – the piles of boxes and supplies, dealing with moving and storage companies, concerned about moving expenses, dealing with connecting your cable, Internet, phone, and utilities, changing your address, etc.– you may be experiencing relocation stress.

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Moving-Related Stress

Stress releases neurochemicals into the body that prompt a “fight or flight” emotional response. If you don’t find a way to deal with these responses, they can build and cause physical and emotional problems. Stress symptoms include headaches, backaches, stomachaches, fast heartbeat, being more susceptible to illness, irritability, impatience, inability to concentrate, the feeling of being out of control, and depression. There may be instances of panic attacks and nightmares. Some people start to bite their nails or grind their teeth.

Fight Relocation Stress with Organization and Moving Checklists

One of the best ways to alleviate stress when you’re moving is to be organized. Make thorough lists of everything that needs to be done and when it has to be done. Start early and do as much as you can ahead of time; waiting until the last minute on a project as big as a move is an invitation for stress. Don’t try to do it all yourself unless you have no choice. Assigning different projects to family and willing friends can be a big stress saver.

Take Care of Yourself Before and After a Move

Another way to alleviate stress is to make time to take care of yourself. Don’t neglect daily exercise which can work wonders to reduce stress and calm nerves. Plan time to relax, even if it’s just soaking in a nice, hot bubble bath with no interruptions, no deadlines, no phones – just a calming, quiet time for you. Watch a TV show or movie that makes you laugh; laughter is an amazing antidote for stress. And remember to breathe – close your eyes and take a deep, cleansing breath every now and then while visualizing a beautiful, calm place like a beach or mountain stream.

Diet is also an important element in reducing stress. Sometimes during the busy time leading up to and following a move, your regular eating routine can be disrupted. Try to maintain healthy eating habits during this time and you’ll feel better physically and mentally.