The experience, often perceived as enriching, could be harmful in adulthood.
Different cities, schools, friends, neighbors… Moving several times during childhood is generally perceived as positive for the individual. In the collective mind, these people would be more adaptable, more sociable, more open… but this is not what studies show. A new study carried out in Denmark even goes so far as to warn of the negative consequences of repeated moves when you are a child.
As a preamble to their publication in the JAMA Psychiatrythe researchers point out that studies conducted in Europe, North America and China have shown that children who move more frequently from birth to mid-adolescence are more likely to experience a range of negative mental health consequences later in life. “including suicide attempts and mental illnesses (mood disorders, personality disorders, and anxiety disorders).” Residential mobility could – contrary to popular belief – disrupt social networks, emotional ties, family routines and schooling. “It can be particularly stressful for everyone in the family if the move is involuntary.” the authors emphasize.
Based on these observations, they decided to analyse data on 1,096,916 people born in Denmark between 1982 and 2003 and living in Denmark during their childhood (from birth to 15 years) with both parents born in Denmark. Of these, 35,098 were diagnosed with depression (after 15 years) and were hospitalised in a psychiatric ward. For the authors “The experience of moving during childhood, whether living in a deprived neighborhood or not, is associated with significantly higher rates of depression in adulthood” while “not moving during childhood is potentially protective.”
The risk of depression would be 61% higher for people who moved more than once between the ages of 10 and 15. It would not be the move itself but rather the change of city or neighborhood that would be disruptive since it involves a change of school, leaving neighbors that one trusts… A fixed place of residence during childhood”may be an indicator of a stable family or of a stronger rooting of individuals and families in their neighborhood which creates a feeling of belonging to a group and of being collectively connected.”
Depression is a serious mental illness. It can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thoughts. Depression also has physical consequences such as fatigue, body aches, digestive problems, and a weakened immune system. It can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is crucial to recognize the signs of depression and seek professional help. Treatments such as psychotherapy and medications can help manage and overcome this difficult ordeal.