Why is moving so stressful, and how do I cope?
Moving piles up many stressors at once: money, deadlines, decisions, physical work, and leaving familiar people and places. Stress is your body's normal response to that load. It usually eases once the move is done and routines come back.
The National Institute of Mental Health suggests basics that work during a move too. Keep a regular sleep schedule. Eat regular, balanced meals. Get some movement each day. Cut back on caffeine. Write down what is stressing you so you can see patterns. Try a breathing or mindfulness exercise. Lean on people who support you, and say yes when they offer to help.
Get help if stress or worry doesn't fade, gets in the way of daily life, or makes you avoid things you need to do. Those can be signs of an anxiety disorder, which is treatable with therapy, medication, or both. If you are in emotional distress or thinking of hurting yourself, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Source: National Institute of Mental Health, I'm So Stressed Out! Fact Sheet · Checked October 2026