02/23/2026 “Conquering Clutter and Gain Better Mental Health” By Kaylee McGrath

Opening Statement:

What comes to mind when you think of clutter? Is it the pile of magazines that you won’t throw out because you swear you’ll read them one day? Is it possibly more emotional, like old greeting cards you have received, paperwork you no longer need, or mementoes collected throughout the years? Stated by many mental health professionals, clutter can be physical and mental, and both affect your overall health. By decluttering your physical and mental spaces will help you regain control and lead a happier and less stressful life.

What Is Wrong with Having a Messy Space with Clutter? 

It’s natural to want to hold on to things, but excessive clutter breeds stress. Think about the panic you felt the last time you couldn’t find your keys or cellphone. If your home or workplace is disorganized, it can be hard to relax.

Clutter Can Create:

·       Long-term stress, which may cause increased blood pressure, heart rate and inflammation levels that can harm your heart

·       Feelings of guilt or helplessness

·       Anxiety, anger or frustration

·       Loss of sleep

·       Chronic pain or fatigue

·       Difficulty concentrating, making it harder to get tasks done

·       Weight gain

·       Fire and tripping hazards

Mental Or Life Clutter Can Come in Many Forms:

1.      From unhealthy relationships to negative feelings about ourselves

2.      It can make us feel angry, scared, overwhelmed or lost

3.      Forget what is really important in life

The Good News:

There are steps you can take to free yourself from clutter. Plan for Success Clearing physical clutter requires you to put away, discard, recycle, donate or sell things that are getting in your way.

1.      Start with the areas that are causing you the most stress and you don’t need to get everything done at once.

2.      Set goals and even 10 - 15 minutes of decluttering a day is a good start

3.      Make quick decisions on what you want to keep or toss

4.      Let go of emotional attachments— take photos to keep them in your memory.

5.      Remove items right away so you don’t change your mind.

To Remove the Mental Clutter in Your Life:

1.      Cleanse your mind by writing down what’s holding you back

2.      Set boundaries and make to-do lists

3.      Create new healthy routines

4.      Let go of the need to be perfect

5.      Unplug from technology

6.      Limit the toxic people in your life

Closing Statement and Seeking Help in Extreme Circumstances

Excessive clutter can be a symptom of a hoarding disorder, which is often linked with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. People with this condition are usually indecisive and have difficulty throwing anything away. People who hoard often hang on to common household items, such as mail, newspapers, boxes, clothing, and plastic bags. They often suffer from social isolation because they’re embarrassed to invite anyone into their homes. If you struggle with clutter, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can help you set specific goals. A professional organizer also can help. Clearing your clutter relieves stress and anxiety, improves your mood and lets you accomplish long-term goals. It can be a lot of work but is well worth your time and effort.

Source of Information: Various Google Searches and Printed Marketing

Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!