Moving is a Stressful Event!

Advice from Steven J. Shea, Ph.D.
and Mary E. Shea, Ph.D.

Death, divorce and moving are life's most stressful events. Relocating your home, family and job impacts your financial status, daily routines, and contacts with friends and family. It can be especially disruptive to kids, who have to make all these changes, but have no control in the situation.

The stresses of buying and the stresses of selling are enough to make many people feel overwhelmed. Taking care of yourself in the process, making sure you understand what's going on, and increasing your sense of control can reduce your stress and help keep the process sane.

 How To Overcome The Stress Of Selling

1. Simplify. Take care of yourself. This may be a good time to take a weekend away or a night off. Send the kids to see grandma.
2. Try to take the emotion out of the tasks. If you can't sort through things in advance or if it's overwhelming to sort and throw out old memories, put them in a box and deal with it when you have the mental energy even if it means having to move a few extra boxes.
3. Hide something of importance to you in the house that no one else knows about. This helps you keep the connection that has been so important to you

 How To Overcome The Stress Of Buying

1. Simplify and Organize. Talk to your realtor about the best ways to do this
2. Take care of yourself.
3. Remember it's temporary (this too shall pass). Reflect back to your excitement when you first decided to buy. Even though you'll be getting advice and help, keep your perspective. Remember you'll be happy living in your new home.

 How To Help Your Kids Adjust To The Move

1. Acknowledge your child's feelings. Help them set up a photo album and address book of their friends. Buy them stationary and have them write letters. Your children don't have to lose their old friends.
2. Allow your child some sense of control. Let them help decorate their room, choose the color of paint, choose the wall border, etc.
3. Take your child to their new school and arrange for a buddy to show them around on the first day.
   

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