Summary of Issue
- Disruption of Social Networks: Moving can disrupt established social networks, leading to feelings of disconnection and loneliness.
- Adjustment Period: The process of settling into a new environment can be stressful and isolating.
- Building New Connections: It takes time and effort to build new social connections in a new place.
Introduction
Relocating to a new city or country can be an exciting opportunity for growth and change. However, it can also be a significant barrier to maintaining social connections and can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Understanding why relocating impacts social connections and exploring solutions can help ease the transition and foster new relationships.
Why the Barrier Exists
Relocating can significantly disrupt social connections and social health for several reasons:
- Disruption of Social Networks: Moving often means leaving behind friends, family, and familiar support networks, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
- Adjustment Period: Settling into a new environment can be stressful, and finding new social circles takes time and effort.
- Cultural and Social Differences: Adapting to new social norms and cultural differences can create barriers to forming new connections.
- Lack of Immediate Support: In the initial stages of relocation, the absence of a support network can amplify feelings of isolation.
Recommended Solutions
To reduce the negative impact of relocating on social connections and social health, consider these strategies:
- Stay Connected with Old Friends: Use technology to keep in touch with friends and family from your previous location through video calls, social media, and messaging apps.
- Make time to connect through Community Activities: Join local clubs, groups, or organizations that align with your interests to meet new people and build a sense of community.
- Explore Your New Environment: Take the time to explore your new city or town, attend local events, and visit community centers to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.
- Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and contribute to your new community.
- Be Patient: Building new relationships takes time. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate this transition.
By being proactive and engaged, we can reduce the negative impacts of relocating on our social health and foster stronger, more meaningful connections in our new environments.
Expert Insight
Adults who relocate to a new city for work or other reasons “are prone to feelings of isolation and loneliness because they are often by themselves and without the company of old friends and supports” (Dr. Stephanie Newman, 2010).
Community Resources/Solutions
To help manage the impact of relocating, various organizations and groups across Canada provide support and opportunities for improved social connection and social health:
- GenWell
- Description: Is Canada’s Human Connection Movement and is working to educate, empower and catalyze Canadians around the importance of their social health.
- How it Helps: They provide tips, tools, resources and campaigns that can inspire social connection for all Canadians
- Contact Information: Visit website at www.GenWell.ca for more information.
- Newcomers Canada
- Description: Offers resources and support for newcomers to Canada, including information on settlement services and community integration.
- How it Helps: Provides guidance and support for adapting to a new environment and building a social network.
- Contact Information: Email: info@newcomerscanada.ca
- Canadian Association for Immigrant and Refugee Health (CAIRH)
- Description: Supports the health and well-being of immigrants and refugees in Canada through community-based services.
- How it Helps: Offers programs and services to help newcomers integrate and connect with their new communities.
- Contact Information: Visit website for specific contact details.
- 211 Canada
- Description: A free, confidential service that connects people to local community and social services across Canada.
- How it Helps: Provides information on community programs and services that can help individuals stay connected and supported.
- Contact Information: Phone or Text: 2-1-1
- Meetup
- Description: A platform for finding and building local communities, connecting people with similar interests.
- How it Helps: Encourages participation in local social groups and events, reducing isolation.
- Contact Information: Visit website for local group details.
- Volunteer Canada
- Description: Connects individuals with volunteer opportunities across Canada, fostering community engagement.
- How it Helps: Provides opportunities to meet new people and build social connections through volunteering.
Contact Information: Email: info@volunteer.ca
Further Reading
- Mental Health Commission of Canada: Discussion on housing insecurity and the disruption of frequently moving.
- Psychology Today: Discussion and personal stories of the difficulties of forming new relationships after moving to a new city.
- VeryWell Mind: Tips on how to cope with the stress and anxiety of moving.