How to Let Go. Living with ADHD
Did you know that studies show a connection between ADHD and hoarding tendencies? In this blog post I discuss why ADHDers have a hard time letting go and what you can do to purge.
First, why is there a link between letting go of items and ADHD?
An object might be hard to let go of because it is a reminder of the past, it can seem like the object IS the memory. A person may also feel like they are hurting the gift givers feelings by purging the item from their life.
Another reason ADHDers have a hard time letting go is they attach a future version of themselves to an object. You might hear yourself say: “one day I will fit into this dress.” or “ What if I need this in the future.”
Those with ADHD also feel guilt associated with wasting resources, filling landfills, or even guilt over purchasing an item and then getting rid of the item.
Decision paralysis.(enough said)
Ok, you relate to those 4 reasons, but now what? Let’s talk about how you can successfully purge unwanted/unnecessary items in your home.
Ask for help. Whether from a friend or a professional organizer. Hoarders many times don’t look for help because the hoarding is gradual and then embarrassment sets in. Don’t be embarrassed, you are not alone and a good friend or a professional will not judge you, they are there to help.
When it comes to sentimental items, Marie Kondo an expert in organizing says “handling each item and deciding what to discard is a way to process your past. If you just stow these things away…your past will become a weight that holds you back and keeps you from living in the here and now.”
Gifts. The true purpose of a gift is to be received. The person who gave you the present would surely not want you to store it and let it collect dust just out of obligation
Guilt over wasted resources. When feeling guilt remember that the item has already been created & now it is wasting precious storage space by keeping it around. The item isn’t helping the environment and it certainly isn’t helping your home environment by taking up space.
I don’t claim to be an expert on ADHD, but I hope this article has proven helpful to you if letting go is something you have struggled with. If you would like professional help getting your home organized reach out via the link below.
