Simplifying and Decluttering for Better Mental Health: A Guide for Mums

As a mum, it can be easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life and let clutter take over your home.

For me, a messy, cluttered home causes A LOT of my anxiety! Even though I hate cleaning, the end result gives me a sense of calm and I feel more in control.

So it is not surprising to me that the results of studies conclude that simplifying and decluttering has a positive impact on your mental health. I've put together some tips for you, with the reasoning behind why each works, to help get you started.

1. Understanding the Connection: Clutter can be overwhelming and cause stress, anxiety and feelings of guilt. Studies have shown that a cluttered environment can lead to feelings of chaos and disorganisation, which can increase levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Decluttering your surroundings can help you reduce stress levels and improve your mental wellbeing.
2. Starting Small: Decluttering can seem like a daunting task, so start small. Choose one room or one area of your home and focus on clearing out items that you no longer need or use. This will help build momentum and make the process less overwhelming.
3. Embracing Minimalism: Minimalism is a lifestyle choice that emphasises simplicity and the reduction of clutter. By embracing minimalism, you can simplify your life, reduce stress and improve mental health. Start by identifying the items that you really need and love, and get rid of everything else.
4. Implementing a Decluttering Schedule: Set aside regular times for decluttering. This could be once a week, once a month or whatever schedule works for you, and get the whole family involved! This way, you can stay on top of clutter and maintain a clean and organised home, and by default a clear mind.
5. Seeking Support: Decluttering can be a difficult process, especially if you have sentimental attachments to things. Seek support from friends or family, or consider hiring a professional organiser. They can help you navigate the process and provide advice and guidance along the way.

While you are going through the process try to be really mindful about the emotions you are experiencing, good bad or otherwise. Find out what your triggers are and implement ways to de-esculate the anxiety before it takes hold. I'd love you to let me know your own strategies for keeping on top of things and also tricks to get everyone in your family invested too.

You can also enhance your mental wellbeing alongside decluttering by using the "I Am... Mindset Journal." It is a guided purposeful journal that shows you how to cultivate gratitude, leverage your strengths, manage difficult emotions, and set goals. It offers valuable strategies and prompts to guide you towards a more fulfilling life. You can learn to overcome challenges, track your progress towards a clutter-free lifestyle.and unlock your potential to thrive. Invest in your mental health today the rewards will be immeasurable!

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References:

1. Saxbe, D., Repetti, R., & Graesch, A. (2009). Time spent in housework and leisure: Links with parents' physiological recovery from work. Journal of Family Psychology, 23(1), 29-36.

2. Roster, C. A., Ferrari, J. R., Jurkat, M. P., & Edelstein, R. S. (2008). Investigating the effects of work-related stressors on professional women's well-being. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 13(3), 216-229.

3. Boyce, W. T., & Den Besten, P. K. (2003). Influences on child health and development: Lessons from the British 1946 birth cohort. Paediatrics & Child Health, 8(9), 553-558.

4. K. K., & Novotney, A. (2016). Overcoming the emotional toll of clutter. Monitor on Psychology, 47(10), 36-41.

5. Tolin, D. F., Frost, R. O., & Steketee, G. (2010). An open trial of cognitive-behavioral therapy for compulsive hoarding. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 48(7), 709-717.