Moving Anxiety - Tips on how to cope

Recently I made the jump to move from Liverpool to Edinburgh, 8 hours away from my family in Wales. I moved to be closer to my partner and to build a new life in a new city.

Moving house let alone cities can take quite a toll on your wellbeing and mental health, even if like me you were very excited to make the change. It's normal to have anxiety about moving away from home.A recent study found that moving is associated with poorer mental health (1). This isn't surprising, to move to a new place is to say goodbye to your old places of comfort and make new ones. Which can be overwhelming!

Here are some things that I’ve done to ease my moving anxiety, and hopefully it can help someone else going through the same thing.

1. Familiarise, familiarise, familiarise

If you can, spend a day or two getting used to your new location before you move (this is especially important if you haven’t been there before). Maybe book a nice holiday with friends, that way you’ll already have lovely memories (hopefully) of your new city before you move.

If visiting the city isn't an option before moving, consult google maps street view! This is a great way to get your bearings of a new place, make note of coffee shops/ restaurants you’d like to try.

2. Find a regular haunt

Finding a space outside of your flat/ house to consider a safe space is essential. Maybe it’s a local bookstore, coffee shop or even a local park. If you have another space that you know well and frequent regularly it’ll make your new surroundings feel more like home.

3. Connections

One of the scariest things about moving to a new place is not knowing anyone. Try not to leave it too long before making friends.

Apps like meetup are a great way to meet new people with similar interests.

Bumble BFF is also a great way to make friends

4. Prioritise your wellbeing

The stress of moving can mean that your priorities are all off kilter, there’s so much to sort out! Wi-Fi, council tax, bills, unpacking, decorating...the list is endless.

Your wellbeing is paramount, make sure to eat meals regularly, get some movement into your day (if you’re able) and try and get regular sleep.

5. Routine

Setting up a new routine in a new place is so important. It’ll give you a feeling of stability which speaking from experience is such a lifeboat. Start small at first (you’ve already got so much to deal with!). Aim to wake up and eat breakfast at the same time each day and plan social events. By having a routine and plans it’ll help you feel more grounded and help you feel in control of your new environment (as much as you can be anyway!)

6. Have fun!

Whilst it can be scary, it also can be an exciting time in your life. Try out a new hobby, go to the cinema or go out dancing, this will remind you that new and fun experiences are also a perk of moving!

These are a couple of things that have helped me settle into my new home. Let us know how you look after yourself during periods of change by commenting below...

By Christina @ Brown Paper Packages