Tackling Hoarding: Practical Tips for Organization
Hoarders face unique challenges when it comes to decluttering and organizing their living spaces. The accumulation of excessive belongings can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety and stress. To address this issue, we have gathered six practical tips to assist hoarders in their journey towards a more organized and clutter-free lifestyle. These tips, recommended by experts in the field, aim to provide guidance and support to individuals struggling with hoarding tendencies.
Make Immediate Decisions About Mail and Newspapers: When it comes to dealing with mail and newspapers, it's essential to take immediate action. Upon receiving these items, go through them promptly and discard any unwanted materials. By avoiding the temptation to postpone decisions, you can prevent the accumulation of unnecessary paper clutter.
Think Twice About What You Allow Into Your Home: Before acquiring new possessions, take a few days to consider their value and necessity in your life. Avoid impulsive purchases and carefully evaluate whether an item truly serves a purpose. Additionally, adopt a "one in, one out" rule, meaning that for every new item you bring into your home, remove another item to maintain a balanced and clutter-free living space.
Set Aside 15 Minutes a Day to Declutter: Starting small is key to overcoming the daunting task of decluttering an entire house. Allocate just 15 minutes each day to declutter a specific area, such as a table or chair. By breaking the process into manageable chunks, you can gradually make progress without becoming overwhelmed. If you feel anxious during the process, take breaks and engage in deep-breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques to alleviate stress.
Dispose of Unutilized Items: To combat hoarding tendencies, it's crucial to let go of items that have not been used in over a year. This includes old clothes, broken or rusted objects, and unfinished craft projects. Remind yourself that many items can be easily replaced if needed in the future. Clearing out unused possessions not only frees up physical space but also contributes to a sense of mental clarity and well-being.
Follow the Only Handle It Once Rule: When organizing, avoid the habit of shuffling items from one pile to another. Instead, adopt the "Only Handle It Once" rule. As you pick up an item, make an immediate decision about its fate. Either return it to its designated place or discard it if it no longer serves a purpose. By tackling each item individually, you prevent the accumulation of new piles and promote a more organized environment.
Ask for Help: Recognize that you don't have to face the challenge of decluttering alone. Reach out for support from friends, family, or professional organizers who can provide guidance and assistance. Sharing the burden with others can make the process more manageable and less overwhelming.
Overcoming hoarding tendencies and decluttering a living space is a gradual and ongoing process. By implementing these six tips, individuals struggling with hoarding can begin to regain control over their environments. Remember, change takes time, so be patient and kind to yourself throughout the journey. With determination, support, and consistent effort, a clutter-free and organized living space is within reach.
Sources:
Gerald Nestadt, M.D., M.P.H, Director of the Johns Hopkins Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Clinic, Jack Samuels, Ph.D.
PsychCentral.com
