Mental Health
Mental health was the overwhelming response to a poll I recently conducted. I asked the question “What is your ‘why’ for being organized?”. 79% stated their mental well being as their reason for being organized. The other responses they gave were;
just under 10% – Being an example to their kids
and just over 11% – Easier to find stuff
October is Mental Health Month. The overwhelming response to my question, indicated how important mental health is in our society. I was surprised at how many of the respondents stated that being organized is a contributing factor to their mental well being. I thought it would be easier to find stuff. Yet it makes perfect sense. When your space is organized, it, provides you with a feeling of having control over your space. Not your environment controlling how you live. During the pandemic, many experienced stress, anxiety, fear, sadness and loneliness. For some, those who had pre-existing mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, it made them feel worse. Many chose divergence as a method of coping.
Somewhere to Start
So let’s end the month with doing one thing to be more organized…clean out your junk drawer. We all have at least one. Pick one, empty it out, and put back only what you need. That does not include what you think you might need at some distant date in the future. Put back only what you need in the now. If a future you does need it, junk drawer items are easily and inexpensively replaced. If you are willing to move on, go through your medicine cabinet. Check expiration dates on every item. Dispose of any expired items. Do not flush medications down the toilet! Put them in a jar or zipped bag, add water, then put it in the trash. Your local CVS may accept them. Also safely secure any dangerous medications to keep your family safe.