Buying your dream home should be one of the happiest days of your life, but for many, the days afterward lead to a downward spiral of depression. If this sounds like you, feeling blue after buying a new home, it’s important to know how to cope with depression after buying a house.
What Does it Mean to be Depressed After Buying a House?
You might think, how could anyone be depressed after buying a house?
After all, it’s a dream come true, right?
Buying a house is exciting for most people, but you may experience some unexpected emotions after taking on such a large responsibility. Many changes happen when you move into a new house, which can stir up unpleasant feelings.
Why Do People Get Depressed After Buying a House?
There are many reasons people get depressed after buying a house. Your reasons may differ because it’s such a personal experience, but here are some common ones.
Relocation
If you leave an area where you were established and had all the comforts of home, you may feel out of place and lost in your new home. Even though it’s exciting to have a new place, the unfamiliarity of it may make you feel sad.
In addition, if you don’t know anyone in the area, it can be challenging.
Mental Exhaustion
Buying a house isn’t only a financial burden; it’s mentally draining, too. Many factors go into buying a house, starting with figuring out where you want to move, what you need in a house, and what you can afford.
Next, you have to deal with the mental anguish of making an offer and waiting to hear if it’s accepted. In today’s real estate market, it’s still somewhat cutthroat, making it even more mentally draining to buy a house, especially if your offer isn’t accepted.
Financial Burden
Taking on a new mortgage is a big responsibility, especially if you went from renting to buying a house. The unknown of this large responsibility can cause feelings of uneasiness and even depression as you determine what you have to sacrifice to make it work.
Feeling Unsettled
Living out of boxes, not knowing where local establishments are, and not knowing your way around the area can all lead to feeling unsettled in your new home. Even if you love your home and can’t wait to move into it, not having a ‘home’ for everything or being without a routine can be difficult.
6 Ways to Help Depression After Buying a House
If you become depressed after buying a house, there are some things you can do to help yourself.
1. Get Settled as Quickly as Possible
It’s difficult to feel comfortable in your house if everything is still in boxes and you can’t find your basic necessities.
Make it a priority to unpack your boxes and make the rooms you spend the most time in feel as ‘homey’ as possible. Bring out the comforts of home and even consider hanging pictures or putting out mementos that feel like home to you.
2. Get to Know the Area
Before you move into your new home, familiarize yourself with the area as much as possible. The more comfortable you are navigating the neighborhood and finding things you need, such as grocery stores, the bank, post office, and other necessities, the easier it is to feel comfortable in your new home.
If you don’t have time to do this before you move in, do it as soon as possible after moving in to eliminate that feeling of being lost and depressed.
3. Have a Housewarming Party
There’s nothing more motivating to get your house ready than having a party. A housewarming party is a great way to show off your new house and make it feel like home. There’s something about having your friends and family all together in your house that makes it feel like home much faster.
4. Create a Budget
The financial overwhelm of having a new house can be scary. If your mortgage payment is a lot more than your rent, or you’re worried about all the other costs that come with buying a home, it can quickly lead to anxiety or depression.
To avoid this, create a budget so you know where your money goes and how much you can spend without causing financial stress. Having a financial plan can avoid the unknown and make it easier to enjoy your house without considering the bills.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Moving is a big job that can take up most of your time. While it might feel like you have to do everything at once, taking care of yourself is important, too.
Between moving chores, set aside time to do what you need. This includes things like taking a shower, drinking water, and exercising. It’s okay to give yourself time for things you love to do, too, even if it’s a quick walk around the neighborhood, journaling, or a night out with friends.
6. Get to Know People in the Area
Knowing the people around you is a great way to ease your mind after moving. When you move in, take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors.
As the days pass, spend time outdoors, walking and talking with neighbors. The more familiar you become with the area and the people, the easier it will be to feel comfortable.
Ways to Prevent Unpleasant Feelings Before Buying a House
If you haven’t bought a house yet or are on the brink of moving, consider these tips to avoid depression after buying a house.
Stay Healthy
Take care of yourself in the weeks or days leading up to your big move. Get extra sleep, eat healthy, and monitor your moods. Do things for yourself that feel like treats to boost your mood and make the transition easier.
It’s so easy to put ourselves last, but with a big transition like moving, you must prioritize self-care. The more you care for yourself, the easier the move will feel.
Give it Time
Don’t make any rash decisions about moving. When you pick an area, let it sink in for a while to see how you feel about it. Get to know the area and ensure it’s truly what you want.
If something feels ‘off,’ look into it. Don’t force yourself to move to an area you aren’t 100% on board with, as that sets the stage for depression.
Work with a Reputable Real Estate Agent
Choosing where to live is a big decision, especially if it’s an area you’re moving from out of state or even from a few towns over. Working with a real estate agent who is familiar with the area can help ensure you buy in an area suitable for you and your family.
Real estate agents know the areas well, and if you let them get to know you and your needs, they can match you with the areas best suited to you. Not only that, but a reputable real estate agent can help you find the perfect home, taking the stress off your shoulders.
Plan your Home’s Décor
A great way to keep your mind occupied and help you fall in love with your new house is to plan the décor before you move into it. Getting excited about paint colors, wall art, and new furniture can make the move easier on your mind.
Have Closure
Leaving your old home behind can be challenging emotionally, especially if you’re moving far away. Give yourself time to have closure by saying goodbye to your friends in the area and visiting all your favorite places. Allow yourself time to grieve and focus on the fact that you’re moving forward.
Find Ways to Fit In
The hardest part about moving is finding ways to fit in, especially if you were at your previous house for a long time. Before moving into your house, spend time in the area, getting to know its people and places.
The more comfortable you are in your new space before moving in, the easier the transition will be on your heart and soul. It will still be a big transition physically, financially, and mentally, but it may be slightly less challenging if you prepare.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to cope with depression after buying a house is important because it can happen when you least expect it. Even a happy time, like buying your dream home, can be filled with stress and unpleasant feelings.
Taking care of yourself and your finances and preparing as best as possible are the best ways to help you navigate this time in your life and enjoy your new home.
