Why Moving Abroad Feels So Mentally Exhausting — And How to Make It Easier

Why Moving Feels So Mentally Exhausting
Why Moving Feels So Mentally Exhausting


Moving house is often shown in films as exciting—packing boxes, saying goodbye to old friends, and starting fresh somewhere new. But if you’ve ever moved, or your family has, you might know it doesn’t always feel that way. In fact, moving can be really tiring—not just physically, but mentally too. Let’s look at why that happens, and what you (and your family) can do to make it a bit easier.


🧠 Why Does Moving Feel So Hard?

  1. Too Many Decisions
    Even small moves involve loads of choices: What to keep? What to throw away? Which box goes where? Your brain gets tired from making so many decisions all at once—even simple ones!
  2. Goodbye Hurts
    Leaving behind your room, your school, your friends, or even your favourite park can feel sad or scary. Change is tough, especially when you didn’t choose it.
  3. Everything Feels Uncertain
    Not knowing what your new room will look like, whether you’ll make friends, or how long it’ll take to settle in can make you feel anxious. Our brains like routine—and moving turns everything upside down.
  4. You’re Helping More Than Usual
    If you’re a teen or young person, you might be asked to pack your things, help younger siblings, or stay calm while adults are stressed. That extra responsibility can weigh on you more than people realise.

💡 How to Make Moving Easier

The good news? There are ways to make moving less overwhelming—for everyone in the family.

✅ Plan Ahead (But Not Too Far!)

Start packing non-essential stuff a few weeks before the move—but don’t try to do it all at once. Break it into small steps: “Today I’ll pack my books,” or “Tomorrow I’ll sort out my clothes.”

🛏️ Keep Some Things Familiar

Bring something comforting with you—like your favourite blanket, poster, or headphones. Having familiar things around helps your brain feel safe in a new space.

💬 Talk About Your Feelings

It’s okay to feel sad, excited, nervous, or even angry about moving. Talk to someone you trust—a parent, friend, teacher, or even write it down in a journal. Bottling it up makes it harder.

📱 Stay Connected

If you’re leaving friends behind, plan ways to stay in touch—video calls, messages, or even writing letters. Knowing you won’t lose them completely can ease the worry.

🤝 Ask for Help When You Need It

Adults sometimes forget how big a move feels to young people. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, say so! Most parents want to help—they just might not notice unless you tell them.


🌍 Need Extra Support?

If your family is planning an international move, there’s no need to go it alone. Trusted experts can handle the heavy lifting—literally and emotionally! Visit www.internationalremovalscompanies.co.uk to find reliable, experienced removal companies who understand how stressful moving can be and offer clear advice, fair quotes, and caring service.

📦✈️ Whether you’re moving across town or across the world, the right support makes all the difference.


A Final Thought 💙

Moving isn’t just about boxes and vans—it’s about emotions, change, and adjusting to a new normal. It’s totally normal to feel worn out by it all. But with a bit of planning, honesty, and support, it can get easier. And who knows? Your new home might turn out to be pretty great after all.

Remember: it’s okay to take your time settling in. You don’t have to love everything straight away. Give yourself space to adjust—you’ve earned it.


This article uses helpful, trustworthy guidance—just like the kind you’ll find at www.internationalremovalscompanies.co.uk, a site committed to supporting families through every step of their move.


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