What are the benefits of decluttering and organizing for your mental health?

During & Post COVID there has been a spike in the level of stress and anxiety. There are many reasons for this. A contributing factor is definitely the fact that people were locked up in their homes (which, for some, were cluttered and stressful). During COVID, huge amounts of possessions were acquired for entertainment, for the kids, or in case things ran out (remember the great loo roll shortage!). All this extra stuff has made homes even more chaotic and stressful. There have been so many studies which show living with clutter adds stress and anxiety and so when you remove it actually reduces stress and anxiety.

An organized home and work space greatly reduces stress levels and feelings of anxiety. When spaces are cluttered, the excessive visual stimuli create feelings of overwhelm, whereas organized spaces reduce the visual overload, making us feel more calm and in control. Also, less clutter makes it’s easier to stay focused and productive. Being able to get more done boosts self-confidence which minimizes feelings of anxiety.

Clutter can cause feelings of overwhelm, leading to inaction and helplessness. Conversely, when you remove clutter, you feel more accomplished, lighter, and able to take on new tasks. Having a home you feel proud of means you are more likely to have people over and interact more socially.

Our external environments are often a reflection of our internal landscapes - our feelings, mental health, and personal struggles. While it's not a remedy to inner turmoil, having an organized home and work space boosts your mood and self-esteem by turning your environment into a supportive space rather than a source of stress. An organized space contributes to feeling calm, in control, and grounded.

An organized work space is critical for clear thinking, efficient work, and fresh ideas. Decluttering eliminates unnecessary distractions, allowing you to concentrate better and increase the quality of your work. Also, when everything is in its place, it’s much easier to locate the tools, materials, or documents you need to work efficiently. A tidy workspace allows for new ideas and perspectives to emerge. Even small rituals like clearing your desk before starting a project can help free up mental space for creativity.

When your physical space is cluttered, your mind is cluttered too. This leaves no space for creative thinking or new possibilities. Getting rid of the clutter can be the catalyst to new ways of thinking, a life change, or just feeling more positive about life

Cluttered homes can be unhealthy. A lack of airflow can build mould in cluttered wardrobes and cupboards. It's harder to clean your spaces properly, and so there's likely to be more dust and germs. Research has also shown that when you live in a cluttered environment, you're also more likely to be unhealthy—eat unhealthier food and exercise less. If you're struggling with your health, looking at how you can improve your environment by decluttering is a great idea.

Here are some of the simplest ways to begin organizing your home and workspace for better mental health: -Start small and focus on one area - whether it's a single room, desk, or even a drawer. Starting small helps build momentum and prevents the task from feeling overwhelming. -Prioritize frequently used items - whether it’s office supplies, kitchen tools, or daily essentials like keys and wallets, make sure they have a dedicated, easily accessible spot. -Establish mindful habits by setting up daily or weekly routines to keep things tidy. For example, clearing your desk at the end of each workday, sorting mail immediately when you receive it, doing a quick clean-up of common areas before bed each night.