Organization + Mental Health
Finding Calm Amidst Chaos:
How Organization Eases Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD
Hi friend!
Let's talk about something that's deeply personal to me and that's been a game-changer in my life: organization. Now, I know that doesn't surprise you, but stick with me. As someone who battles with depression, anxiety, and self-diagnosed ADHD, I've found that maintaining an organized environment isn't just about having a tidy space—it's about cultivating a sanctuary for your mind.
I grew up in a household that didn't allow for mistakes to be made, or big feelings to be had. For kids in my family, obedience was what was expected, and if you were to express your feelings (in a way that kids do) expect there to be consequences for your behavior. Without getting into the details of my family dynamics (I'll save that for a session with my therapist) I can tell you that not having sturdy leaders in my immediate family that were emotionally intelligent, had big implications on my mental state. I found myself, months after I had given birth to my first born, reliving my childhood and experiencing the depths of depression for the first time in my life. Anxiety was knocking at my door everyday consuming me with all the worst fears, and I couldn't stand not having control over it.
One area that I did have control was my environment. I remember spending hours in my room as a kid organizing, rearranging, and color coding my closet. I loved creating a space that allowed me to express my personal interest, a la Justin Timberlake posters and Brooks & Dunn blasting from my speakers (I mean what else are you listening to when it's 1997?)
When I found myself struggling with postpartum depression I realized that I needed something to do. I had worked in corporate America for years prior to having kids, and becoming a stay at home mom after having my daughter was a challenging transition for me. I had a hard time finding myself and my worth, because I was no longer running a team of 20 and providing a healthy income for my family. I had just become the diaper changer, kitchen clean up crew, and preschool taxi driver.
One day I decided I needed a project to do while my youngest was napping and my oldest was at preschool, so naturally I decided to clean out and organize my laundry room. And that was just the beginning. I eventually moved on to every room, closet, and cabinet in the house. What I found along the way was that for one, we didn’t need or use half of the crap that we had accumulated over the years. And for two, I felt better. I regained control of my home, and worked through deep feelings that allowed me to find my joy again.
My first project started with my laundry room
Living with mental health challenges can often feel like navigating through a stormy sea without a compass. Some days are smooth sailing, while others left me feeling lost and overwhelmed. That's where organization swooped in as a lifesaver. Let’s talk about how becoming organized helped have a positive affect on my anxiety, depression and ADHD.
First and foremost, let's address the big one: depression. When the weight of the world feels like it's pressing down on your shoulders, even the simplest tasks can seem insurmountable. That pile of clutter in the corner? It became a physical manifestation of my emotional state, exacerbating feelings of hopelessness and despair. But here's the beautiful thing about organization: it breaks down those overwhelming tasks into manageable chunks. Tackling one small area at a time not only creates a sense of accomplishment but also serves as a gentle reminder that I was capable of weathering the storm. Starting with just a few cabinets in my laundry room boosted my confidence and gave me the motivation to continue this journey.
Now, onto anxiety. Ah, anxiety—the relentless companion that never seems to take a day off. I worried about it all! From questioning if I am a good mom, to worrying about the last time I washed my hair. Living in a disorganized environment sent my anxiety into overdrive. Every misplaced item became a trigger for panic, and the constant mental clutter left me feeling like I was trapped in a never-ending cycle of worry. Having babies and toddlers and all the stuff they come with can quickly become an out of control mess. But, I have good news. You see, organization actually offers a sense of control in the chaos. By creating designated spaces for my belongings and establishing routines, I essentially built a fortress against anxiety's relentless onslaught. Knowing exactly where things are, and having a plan in place brought a sense of calm assurance that soothed even my most frazzled nerves.
Getting the kids’ toys organized was probably the most impactful organization project in my home at the time.
And finally, let's talk about ADHD. As someone who's no stranger to the scattered thoughts and perpetual state of disarray, I've learned that organization isn't just helpful—it's essential. I have never been diagnosed by a doctor with ADHD, however when I do the research, I check off 95% of the boxes for symptoms, and I relate deeply to those that have been formally diagnosed. ADHD thrives in chaos, but it withers in the face of structure. By implementing systems and strategies to keep my space organized, I created a supportive environment that caters to our unique needs. From color-coded calendars to labeled storage bins, these simple tools become my secret weapons in the battle against distraction. I also found that I am way more productive and clear headed when I have clear counters and an organized space.
So, whether you're battling depression, anxiety, ADHD, or all of the above (like yours truly), remember this: organization is not just a chore, it's a lifeline. It's a tangible expression of self-care—a way of nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. So, take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and let's conquer the clutter together.
Wishing you peace, simplicity, and a beautifully organized home.
