Cleaning and organizing can be daunting for anyone, but it can be incredibly challenging for people with ADHD. The combination of distractibility and impulsivity can make cleaning and organizing overwhelming and frustrating. However, with the right strategies, people with ADHD can successfully clean and organize their homes.

A clean space is a happy space, and clutter tends to poorly affect my focus whenever my office is untidy. Even so, the thought of cleaning and organizing induces waves of anxiety and procrastination for me. It may be challenging, but there are scientifically proven benefits to having a clean environment. 

For example, a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience in 2011 found that clutter in the visual field competes for attention, making it harder to focus and process information. Another study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology in 2013 found that an organized workspace improved performance on tasks requiring focus and mental stamina.

Moreover, a messy workspace can also contribute to increased stress levels, which can further reduce productivity. A study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin in 2010 found that women who described their homes as cluttered or chaotic had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol than women who described their homes as restful or restorative.

I say all of that to stress the importance of keeping a clean and tidy space. Try not to freak out. I know this entire monologue may be triggering for some of you, but overcoming the fear of controlling the chaos in your environment can significantly improve your ADHD symptoms. Want to learn how to improve your focus to become more productive with ADHD? Stay tuned!