Relocation Stress

Definition

Psycho-social and/or physiological disturbances resulting of transfer from one environment to another.

Related Factors

• Decreased physical health status
• Losses involved with decision on moving
• Moderate to high degree of environmental change
• Past, concurrent, and recent losses
• Feeling of powerlessness
• Impaired psycho-social health status
• Little or no preparation for the impending move
• Lack of adequate support system

Defining Characteristics

• Anxiety
• Loneliness
• Depression
• Apprehension
• Increased confusion
• Withdrawal
• Weight change
• Restlessness
• Lack of trust
• Dependency
• Change in eating habits
• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Verbalization of unwillingness to relocate
• Sleep disturbances
• Insecurity
• Vigilance

Treatment

Communication and understanding the fears within the patient. Daily reassurance will eventually ease these symptoms.

Offered by Debra.