How to reduce the stress of moving abroad

Studies have shown that moving house can be one of the most stressful things you can ever do – moving to another country with furniture, family and pets in tow will surely add to the stress. Few of us take stock of our mental state during such a time.

We spoke to Nicol Mullins from The South African Reward Association to get some advice on reducing anxiety and stress during a move abroad.

Top five anxiety –busting tips

Do as much research as you can: ‘Relocating is a big life-changing decision so make sure you are armed with as much information as possible. Research gives you options and this in turn helps to mitigate any potential unanswered questions,’ explains Mullins.

Have an action plan: We have all heard of the saying failing to plan is planning to fail but how many of us actually put it into practice? ‘Start by making a list of everything you need to do and work through it systematically,’ says Mullins.

Be prepared for the unprepared: Relocating is a massive feat, and something is bound to go wrong says Mullins. ‘Be comfortable with ambiguity, have a plan B just in case and allow for flexibility to deal with change,’ she continues.

Be in tune with your body: ‘Changes bring about a shock to our systems and things like aggression, irritableness and frustration are all tell-tale signs of discomfort,’ says Mullins. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising and having short breaks away from the tasks at hand.

Don’t be afraid to speak out: This isn’t a one-person job so don’t think you need to go it alone. Mullins advises speaking to friends, family, and your broader support structure. Sharing feelings can help alleviate potential mental health concerns.

Preventing anxiety in children

Children are curious, especially younger ones, so spend time answering their questions in a positive yet honest way. Share stories about the country you are moving to, and turn the challenges they may face, like starting a new school, into an exciting adventure.

‘Involving children in the process will really help reduce their anxiety level,’ says Mullins. For younger children, this could be as simple as pointing out the country you are moving to on a map and setting them tasks to do like researching the country, the history and languages and places they would like to see when they arrive.

For older children, the hardest part of relocating is having to leave close friends behind. It is important to have conversations with them and let them know that moving away doesn’t mean that they cannot still be part of their existing peer groups. Explore different options together and set up an agreed schedule like weekly catch up sessions on Zoom or Skype for example, so they you are happy for them to remain in touch.

Managing anxiety and stress during Covid

Quarantine rules are lifting but you may still have to quarantine in certain countries depending on their rules and your vaccination status. But this shouldn’t quash your excitement of relocating says Mullins.

‘The trick to help cope with managed quarantine is to always think about the bigger picture and the adventure and excitement that lays ahead,’ she says. This is an ideal time to start listing things you and your family would like to do after your quarantine is over – so get thinking.

Work on a daily plan. Try and keep to your normal routine when it comes to waking up and keep your meal and bed times the same. If you exercised regularly beforehand, carry on doing it now too. If not, try and do a physical activity like yoga for an hour a day.

Ensure you have enough activities to keep you and your family busy; pack plenty of books and toys for young children and download lots of movies and games for the older ones. Also use this time to reconnect virtually with friends and family and don’t forget to rest. ‘After a busy few weeks, being forced to quarantine for a few days might just be the perfect chance to rest and recoup,’ concludes Mullins.