How to Cope with Moving Away from Friends

Moving away from friends can be a rollercoaster of emotions. On one hand, you're excited about...

Coping Skills
March 21, 2025

Introduction

Moving away from friends can be a rollercoaster of emotions. On one hand, you're excited about the new adventure that awaits, but on the other, leaving your close buddies behind can be tough. Don't worry, though—this guide is here to help you manage those feelings and make the most of your new journey. Think of it as a chance to explore new places, meet interesting people, and discover fun activities you might never have tried before. Staying connected with your old friends while embracing your new environment can turn this transition into a thrilling new chapter in your life.

Understanding Your Emotions

It's normal to feel sad about leaving people you know, nervous about starting new things, and also excited about what the future holds. Acknowledging these feelings is the first step in addressing them. Let yourself feel each emotion completely and without criticism. Accepting your emotions can bring relief and make the transition easier. Try journaling to handle these emotions. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can feel like a breath of fresh air. It gives you a private spot to let it all out and sort through your thoughts. Whether you're doodling in a notebook or typing away, let your emotions spill onto the page.

  • Recognize and acknowledge each emotion
  • Feel each emotion fully and without criticism
  • Accepting emotions
  • Use journaling to manage emotions.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Adjusting to a new environment takes time, and it's vital to be patient with yourself. Initially, you may feel a sense of loneliness as you leave behind familiar faces and routines. You might miss your regular coffee catch-ups with close friends, or the comfort of knowing your neighbors. These initial challenges can be tough, but they are temporary. Moving away also means new opportunities. You can explore new places, meet new people, and make new memories. Think of it as a fun adventure where you find cool new spots, make friends, and try new hobbies.

Maintaining Long-Distance Friendships

Communication Strategies

1). Schedule regular catch-ups via video calls, phone calls, or messaging apps.

2). Send spontaneous texts or voice notes to share daily moments.

3). Create a shared online photo album to keep each other updated.

4). Plan virtual activities like online games, movie nights, or book clubs.

5). Use social media to stay in touch and keep up with each other's lives.

6). Write and send letters or postcards for a personal touch.

7). Celebrate special occasions virtually, such as birthdays or holidays.

8). Schedule regular catch-ups via video calls, phone calls, or messaging apps.

Creative Ways to Stay Connected

One fun idea is to plan virtual movie nights or game sessions using apps like Netflix Party or online multiplayer games. You can also start a virtual book club where everyone reads the same book and then discusses it over video calls. Cooking or baking together virtually is another engaging activity; simply pick a recipe and cook simultaneously via video call. Creating a shared playlist of music on Spotify and discussing your favorite tracks can also be a delightful way to bond. Engaging in virtual exercise or yoga sessions by following a workout video together on Zoom can keep you motivated and healthy. Sending surprise care packages filled with personal notes or small gifts can add a special touch to your friendship.

Self-Care Strategies

Adding self-care to your daily routine can make you feel amazing! Try setting up a fun daily schedule to keep things normal and grounded. Imagine starting your day with some morning yoga, followed by a tasty breakfast, and then diving into your work. This kind of routine can set a positive vibe and make your day flow smoothly and feel more satisfying. Doing what you love is a big part of taking care of yourself. Spend some time on hobbies like painting, reading, or even taking cooking classes. These fun activities can make you feel happy and proud. Plus, they give you a chance to be creative and relax, helping you live a more balanced and enjoyable life.

Dealing with Loneliness

Feeling lonely is a common experience, especially during times of change. It's important to recognize when you're feeling this way and try to understand what might be causing it. For example, identifying triggers such as a recent move or a change in your routine can help you better address and manage these feelings. Learning to enjoy your own company can also be a great way to deal with loneliness. Engaging in solo activities can be both fulfilling and relaxing. Starting a solo travel blog or taking nature walks alone can be wonderful ways to appreciate solitude. These activities provide a chance to reflect and enjoy your own presence, turning alone time into something positive. If feelings of loneliness persist, seeking professional help can be very beneficial. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide support and guidance. Online therapy like Overcomers Counseling makes it easy to connect with professionals from the comfort of your home. This step can offer a sense of relief and help you find new ways to cope with loneliness.

Conclusion

Recapping the main tips for handling moving away from friends, it's all about staying in touch, exploring your new area, and taking care of yourself. Regular calls or video chats with friends can help you feel connected. Getting to know your new surroundings and meeting new people can make the move easier. Doing activities you love or picking up new hobbies can also bring comfort and make things feel more normal. It's essential to stay positive and practice patience during this time. Being kind to yourself and allowing for a period of adjustment can make a big difference. Every move comes with its unique challenges, and it's okay to take things one day at a time.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Coping Skills

What is a life coaching course?

A life coaching course is an online program that helps individuals achieve their personal and professional goals through structured guidance and advice. It offers tools and strategies to help you identify areas of improvement, set clear objectives, and build a personalized plan for success.

How does it differ from therapy or counseling?

Mental health life coaching focuses on developing healthy habits and coping strategies to address mental health concerns.

Unlike therapy or counseling, mental health life coaching does not diagnose or treat mental health disorders but rather helps individuals address specific challenges or goals.

How does a typical mental health life coaching session go?

A typical mental health life coaching session typically starts with setting an agenda based on the client's goals. The coach and client then discuss various topics that are related to the client's goals, such as identifying challenges, building self-awareness, developing new skills, and identifying strategies for overcoming obstacles. During the session, the coach provides guidance and feedback to help the client reach their desired outcome.

How long do I have access to the material?

Once purchased, you will be provided with access to the material indefinitely. This means that you can come back at any point in time to review or complete any modules or assignments that you may have missed out on initially.

Do I need to have a specific career goal or aspiration to work with a life coach?

Not necessarily. A life coach can help you identify and clarify your career aspirations if you are unsure of what you want to achieve in your career. They can also help you explore different options and develop an action plan for moving forward

What if my feelings of emotional overwhelm are affecting my work performance?

If your emotions are interfering with your ability to perform at work, consider discussing your situation with your supervisor or human resources department. They may be able to provide accommodations or resources to support your well-being.