Navigating Change: The Psychological Impact of Relocation

Relocating to a new city or country can be an exhilarating adventure filled with opportunities for expansive and enriching experiences. In the midst of the exciting move process, it's essential to acknowledge the psychological impact such a significant life change can have on the relocating employee and their family. From uprooting familiar routines to adjusting to completely unfamiliar surroundings, the relocation process can elicit a broad range of emotions and challenges.

Embracing the Unknown

According to a recent relocation industry survey, 68% of expatriates experience difficulties in adjusting to a new culture. The feelings of anxiety and apprehension that emerge when moving to a completely foreign environment, whether it’s domestic or international, oftentimes extends beyond the employee, negatively impacting the company.?

“Despite the fact that companies spend $90,000 on average domestically and $300,000 internationally, one-third (1/3) of those people are quitting their job within a year, or returning early, because they and/or their family aren’t socially acclimating,” says Lynn Greenberg, Founder and CEO of PIVT Enterprise, a well-being and social based platform that supports people moving to new locations.??

Helping an employee feel comfortable in a fresh environment is a tremendously important aspect of a relocation – and it’s why companies like Corporate Relocation International (CRI) and PIVT are joining forces to rectify the repercussions of relocation – especially the effect decreased social interaction and connection has on relocated employees, their families, and eventually, their employers. Through this collaboration, there are profound and positive results for all stakeholders.??

“One of the things we try to do at CRI is to really understand the whole “package” of who’s moving, and get to know important things about them, such as their hobbies and interests. These are the areas where we can link them to resources that connect them with like-minded people – it’s a really effective way to initiate the adaptation process within a community,” says Anthony Horton, CEO of CRI.?

Creating these bespoke experiences for relocating employees is top of mind for CRI’s team, and everything from the employee’s passions to their pain points is considered. Horton believes this analysis is a key component when it comes to successful transitions.?

“The innovative technology PIVT brings to the employee acclimation process opens the door to deeper connections, allowing for a more natural and genuine experience for the employee,” says Horton. “By bonding over shared experiences and interests, meaningful connections are forged – and that is what truly enriches an individual’s relocation journey.”

Acknowledging Loss and Grief

Another impactful aspect of relocation involves leaving behind cherished relationships, productive routines, and comforting surroundings…and saying goodbye to friends, family, and a well-known community. It’s understandable that this detachment can evoke feelings of loss and grief for the employee and those who are coming with them. On a more granular level, these individuals may find themselves mourning the life they are leaving behind, and the sense of belonging they once felt. Keeping tabs on the mental wellbeing of the employee is the job of the employer, recognizing and validating these emotions as a natural part of the relocation process, and offering encouragement and support through mental health services, if necessary.?

“The whole person, the whole employee, needs to be considered during a relocation,” says Horton. “You have to think beyond the job, beyond just getting the employee to the new location…it’s a long-term investment and one that needs to be nurtured along the way.”

Greenberg agrees that taking a holistic approach is the best way to ensure the employee thrives in their new location and position. “It’s really about extending what the traditional journey is, and where our support starts and stops. It’s going way beyond just moving their things and letting them go off on their own, because I think we’re really starting to understand what’s at stake if we don’t do those ‘check ins’ and really making sure the employee is doing OK.”

An Opportunity for Growth

Providing employees with effective coping strategies is another way employers can be supportive and significantly aid employees in overcoming relocation culture shock. These strategies, coupled with social connection platforms like PIVT and professional mental health support (if needed), increase the possibility of a successful transition for the employee and their family:

• Building a Support Network: Establishing connections with locals and fellow expatriates can provide invaluable support during the relocation process. Joining community groups, clubs, or expat networks can help employees and families feel less isolated and more like they are part of a community.?
• Maintaining Routine and Structure: Maintaining familiar routines and structures can provide a sense of stability amidst the upheaval of relocation. Establishing daily habits and rituals can help employees and families feel grounded and anchored in their new environment.?
• Practicing Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is essential during times of transition. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, can help employees and families manage stress and maintain emotional well-being.

By embracing the growth and opportunity inherent in relocation, employers can empower their employees to thrive in their new environments, ultimately fostering a positive and successful transition for all involved.