Little Rock Moving Blog - Tips, Tricks, and Insider Info
November 21, 2018

Relocation Depression is a Real Thing

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Real discussion here. Moving to Little Rock to a new home is demanding in the greatest scenario. You're leaving your house--where you have made a life for yourself as well as your family members--and starting off once more in a strange place. Indeed, the move itself is exhilarating--an adrenaline rush which goes on for months during the time you discover a new home, load up the existing one, and get settled with the family in their new schedules. 
 
However soon after the boxes are unpacked and you have established the best route to the dry cleaners, the new truth sets in--you're in a new place, and your buddies and social life are back in your previous place--the location you still dream of as "home". And everything seems awry--there's a sense of being out of place, and you are unsure if it's an actual or emotional place, but it is just not right. It isn't home.

These kind of symptoms might be more than the post-move blues. It's possible that you've got something known as "relocation depression". Relocation depression is indeed a thing--the onset is after most of the commotion of the move dissipates--and must be considered seriously and diagnosed in case you can't get rid of it on your own.  

Indicators to Watch For

These are generally several of the indicators to look out for, the appearance of some of these over a couple of week span indicates it's time to get some professional help. 

You Simply Can't Get Out of Bed 

When you do, you may be lethargic and really do not have the vigor to get through your day. Sleeplessness is another characteristic of depression; you're drained all the time, however you can't go to sleep. Or you can sleep--twelve hours at a stretch and you're still exhausted. 

Decrease of Interest in Anything 

In your past house or community, you had your normal routine as well as your stuff--work, friends, hobbies--that filled your days. Nowadays, you've got your job, however your pals didn't come with you and it's difficult to get passionate about your pastimes if, similar to a third-grader, you do not have anyone to play with. Grownups needs pals too, so never feel bad or guilty that you're a bit lonesome. 

In case you just cannot get focused on anything--activities, your job, making new pals, interacting with family--odds are it is a sign of depression. Along with the blahs comes the inability to focus--if something could capture your attention, it wouldn't last but a couple of minutes and you'd zone out. 

Disinclination to Depart from the House 

The new house is your safe place, and you just don't wish to depart from it. Besides, you have TV shows for binging, and social networking to check. Social networking is often a double-edged sword as it enables you to stay up with pals, however it can also facilitate and abet in your keeping in and not making new friends.  

How to Combat Relocation Depression

There are certain things that can be done to remove the haze, so try these and see if you feel better. 

Get Some Exercise--Active folks feel better, so get out and just walk several times each day. For those who have a dog this is a built-in excuse to get outside. Build on that outdoors time daily. 

Cut Back or Get rid of Alcohol--This is a depressant, therefore it is advisable to refrain from it until you're feeling better. 

Connect with People--Take a class or enroll in a newcomers group. Volunteer--extra hands and capabilities are always welcome. Just one or two new acquaintances makes a huge difference. 

Try out Something New--Go to museums, cafes, theater, restaurants--explore your new area and get to know it. Staying busy is much like exercise--it keeps the excitement moving along and you will have much more energy. 

In the event that these home cures do not help, look for a professional. Relocation depression is no joke, and neglected, may get out of hand into something worse. You know yourself better than anyone, and in case things are not quite right, pay attention to your body and mind. Moving to Little Rock is one of life's most stressful events, however it does not have to become a cause for sadness or depression.

 

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Very pleased with the overall respect and care the men gave to my possessions. Even mailing me very quickly the only thing lost in transit. Would recommend to anyone needing a long distance move.
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