Relocation anxiety/depression
I (25F) still live at home with my dad. In our current time (and economy) I don’t feel any shame about it, but I’ve wanted to “grow up” and move for a while now. My dad is an alcoholic and I believe being here with him makes my anxiety/depression so much worse. It is constant screaming and yelling every single day and it is very triggering for me to say the least. I feel like I’m in constant fight or flight mode. I have been working remotely and saving up money which has been a huge blessing. My company recently let us know that they will be ceasing operations and laying everyone off in the next few weeks, so I have been looking for a new job. My partner and I have been doing long distance, so I decided to apply near where he lives. I visit there quite frequently and I do like the area. I also notice how chill my anxiety/depression is when I’m up there. I just secured a job near where he lives, which is about 12 hours away from where I currently live. I have been so excited throughout the interview process and all just thinking about moving and starting a new life in a new state. Now that I got the job and I’m trying to realistically plan everything out, I have felt immense anxiety and sadness. I feel sad leaving my dad. Even though I believe his worsening addiction has contributed to the state of my current mental health, I feel worried and sad to leave him here alone. I’m gonna miss my siblings and seeing my nieces and nephews as they grow up. I’m going to miss 2 of my dogs that will be staying here. I’m going to miss my friends. I’m going to miss my mom. The thought of not being within a few minutes of all my family and friends is a weird feeling. And the thought of leaving my safe space is anxiety inducing. It feels like a big jump that I thought I’d immediately be ready for, but now I’m questioning. I’m wondering if I should stay home and work a job here to save more, but at the cost of my mental health, I’m not sure it’s worth it. I’m trying to take it as a sign that if I was offered such an amazing position, that means I’m ready to take this next step. I want to be so certain about it all, but the anxiety and depression surrounding relocating is insane.
Posted Aug 8, 2025, 4:58 PM UTC