Starting a new job always comes with first-day jitters. But this change can feel even more overwhelming when moving to a new city as well. Fortunately, with some simple techniques for managing moving anxiety, you can care for your mental and behavioral health while making the transition into a new career in a new city.
How to Adjust to a New Career in a New City
First-day jitters are bad enough, but when combined with anxiety about moving, stress over so many changes, and even emotional distress if leaving friends and family behind, those jitters can feel overwhelming. When you're getting ready to move to a new city thanks to a change in jobs, keep these tips in mind to make it a seamless transition.
Be Patient with Yourself
When moving to a new city, you might feel pressure to start socializing right away and find a new group of friends to occupy your free time. However, making friends isn't an instant process and can be difficult for more introverted people, and you don’t want to overwhelm yourself. Be patient and allow yourself to ease into your new life, moving only as fast as you need to move. Transitions can be exhausting, and it’s okay to skip a happy hour or avoid unpacking those last few boxes when you'd rather focus on unwinding after work.
Make Time for Hobbies
Painting, singing, running, board games, reading - making time for your hobbies is a great way to get to know your new city and meet new, like-minded people. And, of course, doing activities you enjoy will support your mental health. It might feel intimidating to sign up for an art class, attend a local book club, or join a climbing gym, but taking that step will ultimately help you feel your best and build a community all while making time for the activities you love most.
Create a Home
One of the most challenging parts of moving to a new city is making it feel like home. Even after a few months, you might still feel like you don’t totally belong, whether because you haven't fully unpacked or because you aren't yet immersed in the area. The less your place feels like home, the more anxious or depressed you're likely to feel over your surroundings and new job. However, there are simple and relatively quick ways you can make your house or apartment feel like home instantly. To start, decorate your space with personal touches like photographs, posters, and decor that feels like "you" and brings you joy. Set up a cozy living room with blankets and throw pillows, and make your bedroom a haven of comfort. This way, your home can be a comforting space in an otherwise unfamiliar city.
Remember Self-Care
You might feel exhausted as you cope with your job transition and recent move, which can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. So, be sure to make time for self-care! Eating nutritious meals, taking walks, and taking time to de-stress are just some of the ways to care for yourself. If you're not sure how to best approach self-care, a health and wellness coach can be a great resource for developing new habits through a life transition.
Celebrate Small Accomplishments
Finding an apartment, nailing your first work presentation, and meeting a new group of friends are all milestones to celebrate among the many achievements you regularly make. Allowing yourself to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or small, can make this new chapter feel more special. You might treat yourself to a spa day, plan a nice dinner with your partner, or even take a weekend trip outside the city.
Find a Therapist
Moving to a new city is often isolating, and may lead to struggles with depression, anxiety, melancholy, or even regret. Mental health counseling services can help you cope with the transition and manage job stress. Individual therapy provides a confidential environment to talk through your behavioral health concerns. Your therapist may also recommend other holistic counseling services to support your overall well-being.
How We Help
If you’re moving to a new city and starting a new job, it’s important to seek support. The team at SOL Mental Health is here to support you through all of life’s transitions, whether that's managing moving anxiety or stress over a career changes. Our mental health team offers counseling and coaching services for a variety of wellness needs. Contact us today to make the most of your new job in a new city by addressing concerns with our team.
Does My Insurance Cover a Therapist at SOL Mental Health?
SOL Mental Health is partnered with several insurance providers to make our services more accessible to you. Verify your insurance through our website before scheduling an appointment.
