By Robin Lebovitz, Ph.D.
Beginning a new job is never easy. Of course, it is even more difficult to
begin a new job in a new city and in a new home. When a job start and
relocation co-occur, high stress levels can be expected. Not only will you
experience stress, but your family is likely to be affected as well. You are
aware that your city will change and your home will change, but relocation also
requires changes in identities, roles, and routines. However, there are ways to
decrease your levels of stress to make your family’s move to Atlanta as smooth
as possible. Try the following steps:
1. Establish a support network in your new community. Social
support is important when relocating. Your family may lose social ties, as you
are likely moving away from family, friends and community. Research suggests
that parents and children experience problems in establishing new social
relationships after relocating. Therefore, do your best to enlist your children
in activities, join organizations, introduce yourself to your neighbors, and
make friends! Also, try to establish new relationships at work.
2. Move at a good time. The majority of families, whose move
requires a school change for their children, do so during summer vacation so as
not to disrupt their children’s school schedule. In addition, make sure that
your family is ready to relocate, physically, mentally and emotionally. Take
time to discuss the move, both the good and the bad aspects, with your family.
Although this is certainly difficult, the more “ready” your family is for the
move, the more likely your family is to have a productive, less stressful move.
To read the full text of this article, please request a complimentary copy
of the Fall 2006 KNOWAtlanta. To find relocation service providers who can help
you with your move, please visit our Relocation Service Providers
or complete our Reader Service card.
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