One of the most difficult aspects of moving is leaving your friends behind. I have witnessed many people who were unable to enjoy their new environment because they were missing friends, they felt alone, or they didn’t feel comfortable exploring their new surroundings on their own.

If the above sounds like you then you are not alone, missing friends is one of the main reasons why people will return home within six months.

After a permanent move it can take up to a year to really settle in your new environment. However the quicker you meet people and become involved in activities the easier and quicker it is to settle.

How to meet friends…….

1. Make the decision that you want to find friends – this may seem obvious, however without having made this conscious decision, finding friends will feel like a chore. You will want to find a state of mind which leads you to want to go out and explore your possibilities. Without having made this conscious decision you will not be inspired to start looking for new friends. (more…)

There are so many practical things to consider when you are moving to a new country or state. Here are just a few:

Housing: Selling a home, renting out a home, finding a home to buy or rent.

Schooling: Finding a new school for children.

Packing: Packing up the home

Travel: Arranging flights or other modes of travel

Bills: Contacting companies to organise electricity, phone, gas, water etc.

All of these practical things can cause a strain on your emotional wellbeing if you feel that they are stressful or overwhelming. One way to avoid this emotional stress is too give some of these jobs to others. Can you find a property agent who can help you find a home before you move? Can you afford to have someone to pack up you home for you? Can you hire someone for a couple of hours to make some of your phone calls, write letters and organise travel? Can a family member help you research schools in the area you will be moving to? (more…)

There is little doubt that being far away from loved ones during holiday seasons can be a difficult time. I know I personally struggle with missing my boys just that bit more than usual during Easter and Christmas holidays.

I felt very down and far away from family and friends on Good Friday so I sat down and thought of ways to turn my mood around. After all, I figured if everyone around me appears to be having fun then I may as well join in.

My efforts appeared to have worked as I am feeling very relaxed and light today so I thought it might be a good idea to share how I changed my down day to a positive day through a process of questions…… (more…)

Reason 1: Existing emotional issues

When we move to another country or state we take our emotions with us. It is easy to believe that the move, the new beginning will also take away our existing emotional problems, however this is not the case. We take our emotions with us and the stress of a move can in fact enhance any emotional problems, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with a new situation.

What to do: Deal with the emotions today, don’t wait until you make the move or feel more settled. Find a therapist or coach who understands the emotions involved with a move, as well as the present day emotions that you may be experiencing. Join a group of people in the same situation as yourself. Remember you are not alone; there are many others who feel this way.

Reason 2: Unfamiliarity

When the excitement of a move begins to wear off we can often experience a feeling of unfamiliarity. We no longer know where to buy certain products, where to meet other people, where to go for walks or fun and many other scenarios. The unfamiliarity can lead to a feeling of insecurity and perhaps homesickness.

What to do: Spend some time getting to know your new home town and surrounding areas. Go for walks and drives in your free time and build familiarity. Find a group of people in the same situation as yourself or even start one. Migrant/expat groups are often advertised on the internet, through you embassy or through schools and community centres.

Reason 3: Missing family and friends

It is only natural to miss family and friends when you move to another country or state. Sometimes you may miss them so much that there is a longing to return to the place you have come from. This issue is so common that many people often change their minds about a move within the first few months.

What to do: Decide on specific times to talk to family and friends to keep in touch. Make trips when you can. Make new friends who are in the same position and who understand the emotions. If it all feels too much talk to a therapist or coach who is aware of these issues.