Relocation will have an impact no matter who you are, although it does affect people differently, both emotionally and physically. It is a major change in your life and a major adjustment, for you, your spouse or partner, and for any children. You may not always be aware of how it is affecting you, but the important thing is to realize that these feelings are very normal.

It's normal to experience a range of feelings after the decision has been made (or perhaps made for you) - sorrow and maybe depression, fear, anxiety, and excitement, to name a few. While any move will cause a range of emotions and lots of tension and stress , a major move is likely to cause more.

It's certainly common to feel overwhelmed with all that has to be accomplished - selling a home, finding a new one, house hunting, dealing with financial matters, saying good-by, packing, talking with movers, keeping the house in order to show to buyers, paperwork to review and sign, on top of the normal everyday stuff like kids, chores at home and full time jobs.

Fatigue will likely set in, and some people may have problems sleeping. Other common physical issues are loss of appetite, or the opposite...stress eating, increased smoking and/or drinking, headaches, stomach aches, a feeling of burning in the chest, and more.

But you will likely feel some excitement about your move. Keeping a positive attitude about what is happening and the future will help keep it all in perspective.

Trying to maintain as much normality as possible in your schedule and daily life, keeping a positive attitude, and being organized around all that has to be done will go a long way toward minimizing the tensions of your relocation.

But recognizing that this is all normal and will pass with time is important too!

Good luck and have fun!

RE: The Psychological Impact of Relocation