Can moving to a new country be traumatic?

Homesickness, adjusting to the new norms, getting to know new people and places – moving abroad can feel uncomfortable at best, traumatising at worst. Expat Child Syndrome (ECS) is a term used by psychologists to describe the emotional stress some children experience upon moving to a new country.

Can you get trauma from moving countries?

The most common problems expatriates are faced with today are anxiety, depression, burn out, and addiction (alcohol, drug and prescription medication). People are also treated for post-traumatic stress disorder due to serious situations (assaults, disasters, accidents, kidnappings, etc.).

Can moving countries affect your mental health?

Many people experience significant challenges to their general wellbeing and mental health when moving to – and living in – another country. This can take many forms, such as: Difficulty accessing medication, particularly medication prescribed in the previous country of residence.

Is relocating traumatic?

In any case, it's still valuable to understand the effects of moving to a new home. Because the fact is that moving is traumatic. And not just for adolescents and teens. According to the University Hospital System of Northeastern Ohio, moving is one of the top five traumatic events in life.

What are the psychological effects of moving abroad?

The stress of the move and adjustment to the new country, can lead to anxiety and depression and other psychological problems amongst migrants. Often the hardest thing for new migrants is coping with the loss of family and friends and the realisation that their loved ones are devastated by their move.

The truth about moving abroad

Is it normal to feel homesick after moving to another country?

Homesickness is commonly experienced by people who spend time abroad. Making new friends and connecting with others can help alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. Decorating your room with photos and other familiar items can create a safe space you'll be happy to come home to.

What is relocation stress syndrome?

Relocation stress syndrome is a nursing diagnosis characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, confusion, hopelessness, and loneliness. It usually occurs in older adults shortly after moving from a private residence to a nursing home or assisted-living facility.

How long does relocation anxiety last?

Final Thoughts

Above all, it's important to understand that relocating is never going to be an easy thing. Allow yourself and your employees time, resources, and understanding cope with the change. For some, it may take them a few weeks, others a few months, and some a few years.

How long does transfer trauma last?

Transfer trauma will typically subside within a few months. The first six to eight weeks are typically the most difficult for new residents, according to the Journal of Gerontological Nursing. Difficulty can last up to several months for some, according to The Gerontologist.

How long does relocation stress last?

Even for those who suffer from them, the symptoms of relocation stress tend to subside within about 3-6 months. As a caregiver, do not rush to move them to a new community or make any other large changes, as these will only exacerbate the stress in most cases.

Can moving to a new country cause anxiety?

Much of the anxiety that you experience during a move overseas can stem from uncertainty about getting settled in a foreign country. If your move is associated with work and you've never been to your future home, make it a point to visit at least once before you officially relocate.

How does leaving ones own country affect a person?

Once you've moved abroad, you'll find it even harder to reconcile the rules, environments and behaviours of your two different countries, and this places undue stress on your mind and body. Individuals often find themselves torn between two homes– and the price is often a breakdown of emotional and mental stability.

Can moving countries as a child cause trauma?

Expat child syndrome is a term used by psychologists to describe children who are suffering from emotional stress because of a move abroad. Although it can impact children of all ages, those approaching or in adolescence tend to suffer most.

Can moving cause adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorders are connected to stress-related conditions that might be caused by events such as moving to a new place, problems at work or troubles in a relationship.

Does moving country change your life?

It brings a new perspective of the world

Living abroad brings a new perspective of yourself and the life around you. The change of pace and quality of life, depending on where you move, can equip you with brand new you. On top of that, you're putting yourself into a brand new world - into the unknown.

Is moving traumatic for adults?

Moving can be incredibly stressful for older adults, especially those with dementia. By recognizing the signs of transfer trauma and taking precautions to avoid it, you can help your loved one make the move in a safe and healthy way.

What does trauma release feel like?

After practicing TRE® people often use the words 'grounded', 'relaxed' and 'calmer' to describe their feelings. After a period of several months people have reported relief from illnesses such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Eczema and IBS.

How do you deal with stress relocation?

What is transferred trauma?

What is transfer trauma? Transfer trauma is a physical, behavioural, and emotional reaction to a sudden change in your surroundings. This can happen with a move from a hospital to a care facility, from a care facility to a hospital, or even from one room to another.

Why am I not happy after moving?

Many stressful events could cause situational depression, including relationship problems, and significant life changes like moving to a new place. It's normal to feel intense periods of sadness when stressful events rattle your world. Life changes can be challenging, but relief is available.

Why is moving so hard emotionally?

Moving brings up a veritable smorgasbord of emotions. Our homes are attached to our wellbeing, and physically tearing ourselves away from them may cause feelings of sadness, regret, frustration, and anger.

Is moving the most stressful life event?

According to the National Association of Realtors, the process of moving from one home to another is ranked as the third most stressful life event for Americans. The top two are death and divorce, while losing a job ranks fourth.

How long does it take to adjust to relocation?

It is a good idea to plan a year to 18 months for this major life transition. This does not mean that you will be feeling lost for the entire 18 months, but it's good to give yourself the expectation that it may take that long before your new place truly feels like home.

How stressful is moving across country?

Unlike a local move, cross country moving can cause a bit of a culture shock. The idea of a new home, city, restaurants, and social life can cause automatic stress for anyone. Even so, you should embrace it and stay present at the task at hand.

What is the most stressful part of moving?