Movin' 'n' groovin': seems like it but, seriously, moving is not the end of the world. Here are some sensible tips to prevent PRTD - that's Post Relocation Trauma Disorder - GL Life - Brief Article

Girls' Life, June, 2002 by Alison Embrey

Yes, moving stinks. Take it from me--I've moved nine times and still dread that first day in a whole new habitat. Leaving behind friends and the life you know is a serious adjustment few of us are willing to make without a fight. But as much as you protest it, moving day will come. Sorry, you can't change that.

FORGIVE YOUR FOLKS

We know it's tough, but it's pointless to resent the 'rents. They surely had good reasons for making the decision to relocate. Talk to them about why the move upsets you and how they can help make your adjustment as painless as possible. Whatever you do, don't throw a temper tantrum.

The last thing you want to do is alienate the fain with a hissy fit. You need them now more than ever since you won't have your trusty group of friends around for support. Remember, your parents and sibs are probably experiencing anxiety over this just like you are. Take their feelings to heart, too-this move affects everybody.

STAKE OUT YOUR SPACE

Start by unpacking and decorating your room. Unless it truly comforts you to re-create your room exactly as it was, think of your new crib as a blank canvas you can mold into the living space of your dreams. Display favorite photos of your old friends in funky frames or, better yet, make a poster collage. Keep any remaining pics in photo albums--they provide the most easily accessible solace when you're feeling lonely.

THE NEW GIRL IN TOWN

Break out a map, and get familiar with your new 'hood. Where do the kids hang out? Explore local parks, check out the shopping scene and ask the rents for a grand tour of the area.

Make a point to memorize your new phone number and address. Nothing is more frustrating than forgetting your digits when you're applying for a library card. If you click with some super cool girl your age at the pool, a simple e-mail address will do. Be careful about doling out your personal info.

WHERE DO I SIGN UP?

If you're moving during the school year, check out some activities and sports. Joining the chess club or soccer team is a great way to meet people who are into the same stuff as you.

But many families wait until summer to move, and that can be a bummer. Sitting at somebody's lunch table is way easier than meeting people around town. The local rec center sponsors stuff, so see what softball teams or swim clubs are looking for new talent. Or go to the library, and look for book clubs or artists' groups. See what volunteer opps there are--people who plant trees in their free time must be pretty nice, right?

IT'S GOTTA BE YOU

Don't expect to be Miss Popular right away. Carry yourself with confidence in who you are, but don't be over-the-top. Just let your for-real personality speak for itself. Since you can't work an entire crowd, make one or two friends first, and branch out from there. And don't be afraid to introduce yourself to peeps--they won't always come up to you first.

STAY IN TOUCH

E-mail is the easiest (and cheapest) way to stay in touch with friends back home. Set up a group list with all your buds' e-mail addresses, and write to them all at once. And send postcards of your new town (with sweet messages from you) via snail mail.

If you insist on long phone chats, ask your folks to consider switching their long distance service to an unlimited talk plan. This could also be a real savior if (yikes) you had to leave family behind when you moved.

WELCOME CHANGE

Though you may not realize it now, change is often best. Moving so much has shaped the person I am. I'm open-minded, and have been exposed to many personalities and cultures. Don't fixate on the negative. Give moving a chance. Think of it as an adventure!