Coping With Moving-Related Loneliness

• Loneliness doesn’t just make people unhappy and sad, but is also associated with poor mental health conditions, as well as conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and dementia. There are different ways to tackle loneliness when it’s associated with moving to a new area. Here are some ways to cope.
• After moving to a new place, don’t wait for your neighbors to greet you. Initiate the first step by either leaving a card in their mailboxes with information you are comfortable revealing, or stop by and introduce yourself. This will allow you to ease some of the tension of new introductions, as well as allow you to get to know your neighbors a little bit in case of emergency.
• After introducing yourself, invite the neighbors for a gathering at your place. Suggest some dates and times that will go well with everyone, and make sure that no one feels pressured to attend. To do this, keep the invitations simple and informal.
• Consider your hobbies or interests and look around the neighborhood for local organizations and clubs where you can meet people who share the same interests. This can be done either online or in person.
• Make it a point to take walks whether you are living in the city or country. Casually meeting new people who live nearby can provide you with a sense of comfort. Introducing yourself with a smile and a handshake could lead to a new friendship, but remember to respect people’s privacy.
• If new people move into your neighborhood, make it a point to introduce yourself and to make them feel welcome. Bonding with those who are new to your neighborhood would be easy, as you would understand each other’s situation better.
• After moving to a new location, don’t be predetermined to be unhappy. Being angry and unhappy will only make the situation feel worse and could prevent you from meeting others or pursuing your interests. Always try to make the best of the situation; you’ll be amazed by the results once you have changed your outlook.
• Remain in contact with people from your old neighborhood. You can also invite them to your new home or show them around your new town. Interacting with old friends will help you to be happier when making a new adjustment.
• If you like animals, getting a pet (especially a dog or cat) will provide you with some company to ease your loneliness, and walking your dog will not only help you get regular exercise, but will also give you an opportunity to meet your new neighbors. Read our tip on How to Settle Pets In After a Move?
• Always make sure that you are viewing the move as a new adventure. Once in a while after the move, it’s good to consider your attitude towards the situation so that you don’t slip in to depression. Don’t feel sad about leaving familiar surroundings; instead, open your mind to the world of opportunities that awaits you.