The Mental Health Benefits of Decluttering and Organizing
Mind Set | written by: JACKIE RANDALL, Darien Resident and Co-owner of The Settler
Jackie Randall, (left) with The Settler co-owner Bridget Urgo of New Canaan
In today’s fast-paced world, our homes can quickly transform from peaceful sanctuaries to cluttered storage spaces, overwhelmed by the constant influx of items from the culture of instant gratification. As comedian George Carlin quipped, “A house is just a pile of stuff with a cover on it.” This “clutter culture”—marked by accumulating and holding onto unnecessary items—takes a serious toll on mental health.
The Psychological Burden of Clutter
Clutter isn’t just physical; it’s mental. It overwhelms the senses, disrupts focus, makes it harder for the brain to process information and acts as a constant, visual reminder of unfinished tasks, increasing feelings of guilt and frustration. Clutter doesn’t just take up physical space—it occupies mental space, disrupting relaxation, creativity and productivity.
Research consistently links cluttered environments to heightened stress, anxiety and even depression. A University of California study found that women who described their homes as cluttered had elevated cortisol levels—the stress hormone—throughout the day. A disorganized environment can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming, compounding stress.
Intentional decluttering not only improves the functionality of our homes but also clears mental clutter, paving the way for clarity and well-being. Your home should be a place to recharge, escape stress and restore energy—not a source of anxiety.
The Emotional Cost of Holding On
For Baby Boomers, clutter often takes on an emotional dimension. Many feel deeply attached to family heirlooms, viewing them as extensions of their identity and a way to preserve family history. This emotional attachment can become a significant burden—both psychologically and financially. Boomers may feel responsible for keeping these items even if they no longer serve a purpose, and despite their children having no interest in inheriting them.
This reluctance to let go makes downsizing and moving especially stressful for this age group. Addressing this “PTSD” of parting with heirlooms requires exploring the balance between nostalgia, responsibility and the challenges of letting go. By reframing our relationship with possessions and prioritizing what truly serves our lives, we can begin to reclaim our physical and mental spaces.
The Mental Health Benefits of Decluttering
Decluttering is not just about creating a neat home—it’s about fostering a peaceful, intentional life that positively transforms mental health. Here are a few examples of how decluttering can make a difference:
- Improved Emotional Well-Being: Clearing out sentimental but unused items such as old clothes or gifts can provide closure and help you focus on the present rather than being weighed down by the past.
- Enhanced Focus: A clutter-free desk or workspace minimizes distractions, allowing for better concentration and increased productivity in both professional and personal tasks.
- Better Family Dynamics: Organizing shared spaces reduces conflicts over misplaced items and helps streamline daily routines, fostering harmony at home.
- Physical and Mental Energy Boost: Letting go of unnecessary items lightens the load—literally and figuratively—helping you feel more energized and empowered to tackle other areas of life.
- More Restful Sleep: Decluttering your bedroom can create a calming atmosphere, signaling your brain to relax and improving sleep quality.
Mindful Decluttering as Self-Care
Decluttering goes beyond having a neat and tidy home—it’s a form of self-care. By clearing your physical space, you make room for mental clarity, emotional growth and a sense of joy. Letting go of possessions as well as old habits and beliefs can be an empowering and freeing experience.
Remember, progress, not perfection, is the goal. A clutter-free home takes time, and that’s perfectly okay. Each step forward enhances not just your surroundings but your overall well-being. Ultimately, decluttering is about crafting a life filled with intention, focus and peace, one step at a time.
Getting Started:
Practical Tips for Decluttering
Decluttering can feel daunting, but breaking it into smaller, achievable steps makes it easier and more rewarding. You’ll create a more organized, intentional space without feeling overwhelmed.
Here’s how to begin:
- Start Small: Set a timer for just 15 to 30 minutes a day and focus on one drawer or corner. Small wins build momentum and confidence.
- Set Clear Intentions: Think about your goals—creating space, simplifying routines or finding peace. Having a purpose keeps you motivated.
- Sort Mindfully: Organize items into categories: Keep, Donate, Recycle and Trash. Making thoughtful choices about each item can feel empowering.
- Adopt “One In, One Out”: For every new item you bring into your home, let one go. The “one-year rule” can help you decide what no longer serves you.
- Create Simple Zones: Assign special places for items—a drawer for school supplies or a bowl for keys—so everything has a home, making it easier to stay organized.
- Work Together: Involve your family or housemates to ensure everyone feels invested and responsible for maintaining the newly organized space.
- Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge and reward each milestone, no matter how small. Every step forward is worth celebrating!
About The Settler
The Settler is a full-service concierge move management and professional organization business serving the Tri-State area, Northeast Corridor to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, south Florida and beyond. The Settler has an A+ Accreditation and is a Diamond member of the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers (NASMM) and is a member of the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO). Learn more about The Settler at thesettlerhome.com.
