The focus for Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, taking place from 15 to 21 May, is understanding anxiety and providing information on how to prevent it from becoming a problem.

Moving home is a big life event and the pressure it brings is a common cause of anxiety. It can feel daunting, but there are various steps we can take to ease the worry. With that in mind, we’ve outlined six ways to make your moving experience less stressful.

Start planning early

Allow plenty of time to prepare, starting the process as early as you can and allocating a portion of time every day to work on your planning. Begin packing non-essentials at least two weeks before moving day. Staying on top of your preparations will help to alleviate anxiety.

Use lists

Create lists that correspond to different aspects of your move, from de-cluttering to admin, to help you understand and prioritise what needs to be done. Draw up a checklist of tasks to complete, covering everything from notifying utility suppliers to finalising removals. You can easily find standard printable checklists online

Ask for help

Don’t carry the burden on your own – ask for as much assistance as you can. Friends and family can help with tasks to ease the pressure and might be able to refer a good solicitor to make your move as smooth as possible.

Maintain life balance

Planning and overseeing a move can become overwhelming if you don’t take time to maintain some balance and order in your life. Try to find some “you” time with activities that form part of your regular lifestyle. Maintaining exercise, healthy eating habits and regular contact with your social circle  will help your physical and mental wellbeing.

Pack essentials for moving day

Pack the essentials – important documents, toiletries, toilet roll, medication, underwear – into one container so you can find them easily amid the rush of moving day. Include some comforts – favourite toys for children, a scented candle or bubble bath – to make everyone feel more relaxed and at home when the move is complete.

Remember the end goal

At times of high stress, remember there is a reason for your move and all the anxiety will be worth it when you achieve the end goal. The upheaval is temporary, but the rewards of moving home will be with you for many years to come.

Prospect Homes’ Sales Advisors are experienced in guiding homebuyers through the moving process and making it as stress-free as possible. For further advice, contact our team on [email protected]