Frequent Moves During Childhood Contributes to Depression

Each year, countless Americans move to a new home, a new community, or even a new state. In fact, some researchers estimate that more than 30 million people, or 19% of the population, will move in the next 12 months.

And while some families are moving because of a new job, better school systems, or to be closer to relatives, moving is not without its stresses and challenges—particularly for kids.

Research on the Impact of Moving During Childhood

A recent study of adults in Denmark discovered that those who moved frequently in childhood have a significantly higher risk of developing depression than their peers who stayed in the same community all of their life. This study, which was published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, included more than 1 million people born between 1982 and 2003. Of those people, more than 35,000 (or 3.2%) were diagnosed with depression.

While the researchers’ methodology and data didn’t confirm specific reasoning behind the impact, Clive Sabel, PhD, a professor at Aarhus University and the lead researcher on the study, offers speculation. “We have hypothesized that it has to do with a settled family life, and being secure in the home neighborhood,” says Dr. Sabel. “We think it has to do with so called ‘social capital,’ or the benefits gained from strong social bonds in the neighborhood or school that take time to form.”

Dr. Sabel also notes that there was no reduced risk when moving from poorer neighborhoods to wealthier neighborhoods as one might expect. “Again, we don’t know because our study design didn’t let us investigate the ‘why,’ but we can speculate. First, it’s relatively uncommon to move from poor to rich neighborhoods. For those who do move, they are disadvantaged by the aforementioned moving effect.” 

Other studies also have found that moving from a poor area to a more prosperous one can be challenging for kids, especially if they feel out of place, given their roots in a less affluent area, says Ulrick Vieux, DO, a double board-certified pediatric psychiatrist with Hackensack University Medical Center.

“There may be a shunning of a child who may not have the amenities at home as their classmates,” says Dr. Vieux. “They also have to get accustomed to a new way of instruction, as well as cope with leaving behind sports teams they had been part of, and social clubs at their former school.”

Why Moving Can Be Hard on Kids

Despite the fact that kids may move to better school systems or wealthier communities, they still are at risk for depression as adults, according to the study. The researchers note that this risk is likely not tied to the move itself, but to the new neighborhood. They also noted that those who moved more than once between the ages of 10 and 15 were 1.61 times more likely to suffer from depression in adulthood compared with those who did not move.

For many parents, these findings may be difficult to comprehend, especially if they are moving to what can be considered a “better neighborhood.” But according to Brandy Schumann, PhD, LPC-S, a clinical professor in the Department of Counseling at SMU, ages 10 to 15 are critical for building independence and investing in relationships outside the home—and moving during this time period can be particularly disruptive.

“At this stage, children are becoming more involved in social activities, forming friendships, and establishing connections,” Dr. Schumann says. “Frequent moves can disrupt these processes, leading to instability and stunted development in forming stable, lasting relationships. The loss of familiar support systems and the challenge of repeatedly adapting to new environments can contribute to feelings of insecurity and isolation, which may persist into adulthood.”

What’s more, a sudden change can be challenging, especially for those who want predictability, she says. In fact, when kids experience a major change like a move, they don’t have any control over what’s happening and that can feel overwhelming, creating a sense of instability.

“For parents considering a move to better school systems, it’s necessary to weigh the benefits of better schools against the potential psychological impact of the move on children,” Dr. Schumann says. “The focus should be on creating a sense of stability and support during the transition, regardless of the perceived advantages of the new environment.”

Coping With the Emotional Weight of a Move

Due to a number of circumstances, some parents have no choice but to move.

For this reason, Dr. Schumann recommends parents explore the narrative they tell themselves and what it signifies about their parenting. In other words, ask yourself what moving at this time says about you as a parent.

“Understanding and addressing these feelings can help alleviate guilt,” Dr. Shumann adds. “Also, recognizing that moves can be handled in healthier ways with proper support and preparation for children can also reduce parental concern.”

Additionally, Dr. Vieux says make sure you communicate the situation to your child and explain why you have to move. Share the positive aspects of the move and encourage them to share their opinions. Then, listen to what they have to say and validate their feelings. These conversations can help demystify the move and make your child feel they have at least been heard.

If you’re looking to move because of better schools, Dr. Vieux recommends researching the school and the neighborhood. “Visit them and meet with school administrators and counselors to gauge how much support there is for helping new students acclimate.”

Also, consider taking your child along and encouraging them to ask questions. If possible, also visit several schools before making a decision and allow your child to have some input.

“If the child feels that their thoughts have been taken into account, the move may be a more positive experience,” Dr. Vieux says.

Tips for Adjusting to a New Community

While it’s only natural for kids to have a range of emotions while adjusting to a move, there are things you can do to help make the transition a little easier. Here are some things that mental health professionals recommend.

Consider the timing

Dr. Schumann emphasizes the importance of timing when preparing for a move.

“Honoring important events in the child’s schedule and bringing things to a predictable close, such as the end of a school year or sports season, can provide a sense of closure,” she notes.

Also, consider moving when kids can join new groups or activities at natural starting points, like the beginning of a school year or the start of a sports season, she adds. This can help them build new relationships and adjust to the new environment.

Get involved in the new community

Engaging in community activities, sports, clubs, and school events can help children build new connections, says Dr. Schumann. “Meeting new neighbors and participating in local church events can also facilitate this process.”

She also says create opportunities for social interactions, such as playdates for younger kids or small gatherings or meet-ups for tweens and teens. And, if they have trouble striking up a conversation with someone new, help them practice the skills they need by role-playing social scenarios at home first.

Dr. Vieux suggests setting a positive example by going to school plays, sporting events, and signing up to be a class parent if time allows.

“You’ll meet parents with children the same age as yours and build a new social network for yourself and your child,” says Dr. Vieux.

Acknowledge your child’s perspective

“When a child is struggling, it is not time to try and make it better or to solve it, but rather convey understanding so that they are not alone in what feels like a very lonely moment,” says Dr. Schumann.

She adds validation of their feelings through listening will show a respect for your child’s sense of loss. This helps them feel heard and understood. “Recognize, too, that change can be a form of grief,” she says. “Children need closure and predictability.”

She suggests facilitating this predictability by creating a supportive environment with consistent routines and familiar comforts. This breeds a sense of safety and can also help reduce their risk of depression.

Keep the lines of communication open

Dr. Vieux says regular check-ins with your child will create an environment of open communication. Ask how their day at the new school went, including likes and dislikes.

“If your child seems anxious or feels alienated, consider meeting with a counselor about ways you and the school can help your child,” he says.

Also, if your child is struggling in school or exhibits changes in mood and behavior, talk to their health care provider and ask about having your child’s mental health evaluated.

“In some cases, a mental health therapist might be key to reducing the risk of depression or other mental health conditions later on,” Dr. Vieux notes.