Moving is often described as a stressful experience. Relocating ranks third among life stressors, preceded only by death and divorce. Yet, despite the challenges, over 40 million Americans move each year. Some relocate for work, others for housing, and many for a combination of personal and professional reasons. Whether you’re moving up, moving down, or simply moving out, relocation can be a major life transition that can take a toll on your mental health.

Even for those who are excited about a fresh start, the logistics of moving— packing, securing financing, arranging movers, unpacking, and settling into a new neighborhood — can feel overwhelming. The emotional impact of leaving familiar routines, saying goodbye to friends, or adjusting to a new environment often accompanies the physical demands. Add in the stress of moving with pets, coordinating childcare, or moving for the first time, and it’s no surprise that many people experience moving anxiety during this transition.

Is it common to be stressed about moving?

Yes. Feeling anxious, nervous, or overwhelmed about a move is very common. Moving often involves many stressors: financial stress, social disruption, and major lifestyle changes. Even adults with prior moving experience may feel pressure, while children can face challenges adjusting to new schools, new friends, and unfamiliar routines.

Research shows that relocation anxiety or relocation depression can impact both mental and physical health. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing your stress levels and taking steps to manage them.

Why is moving so stressful?

Moving is more than just a logistical challenge; it’s an emotional and psychological one, too. Here’s why:

  • Moving disrupts routines, which can heighten anxiety and uncertainty. Even positive moves, like upgrading to a bigger home, can involve significant adjustments.
  • Buying, selling, or renting a home often comes with unexpected costs. Worries about mortgages, renovations, deposits, or moving services can add to stress.
  • Leaving friends, neighbors, and familiar communities can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Moving can strain relationships, especially if children are involved or the family is relocating due to financial hardship.
  • From creating a moving checklist to managing packing, transportation, and unpacking, the demands of moving can feel significant.

For many, these factors can contribute to moving anxiety or heightened stress, especially when moving for the first time.

Signs to watch out for

Moving-related stress can vary from person to person, and it can look different in adults and children.

Adults may experience:

  • Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Headaches, fatigue, or GI issues
  • Behavioral changes such as overeating, substance use, or impulsive actions

Children may show:

  • Clinginess or withdrawal
  • Behavioral regressions, like bedwetting or tantrums
  • Sleep problems or nightmares
  • Resistance to school or social changes

Recognizing these signs early can help prevent stress from escalating into a more serious mental health concern.

How to cope with moving

Managing stress during relocation often involves both practical strategies and emotional self-care:

  • Plan ahead: Use a moving checklist to organize and reduce last-minute pressure.
  • Prioritize self-care: Maintain routines, eat well, exercise, and get adequate sleep.
  • Break tasks into steps: Tackle packing, decluttering, and organizing in manageable portions.
  • Ask for help: Friends, family, or professional movers can reduce the workload and emotional strain.
  • Include pets in your moving plan: Moving with pets often requires extra preparation, like arranging safe transport and familiarizing them with their new environment.

How to help a child who is stressed about moving

Children may experience relocation anxiety differently from adults. You can support them by:

  • Talking openly about the move and listening to their concerns
  • Maintaining familiar routines during the transition
  • Visiting the new neighborhood or school before moving day
  • Involving them in the moving process, like helping them pack their belongings or choosing their new room
  • Reassuring them that friendships can continue and new ones will form

Therapy for life transitions

Sometimes, pre-move therapy can be helpful — especially for individuals with existing anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health challenges. A licensed therapist can:

  • Teach coping strategies for managing moving anxiety
  • Offer guidance for family communication and stress reduction
  • Provide a safe space to process emotions related to the move

Therapy can be a proactive way to navigate life’s changes, whether you’re moving for the first time or adjusting to another relocation.

Takeaway

Moving is often a major life event that can affect mental, emotional, and physical health. Recognizing the signs of moving anxiety, planning with a moving checklist, and seeking support for yourself or your family can help make the transition smoother. If you notice persistent moving stress, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist. With guidance and support, your move can feel more manageable and positive.