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What better way to start the new year than decluttering? Experts say it isn’t just a trend or a seasonal chore—it’s a transformative practice with profound mental health benefits.
While many people associate tidying up with creating space for physical belongings, Dubai-based experts note “decluttering plays a crucial role in enhancing mental clarity, reducing stress, and fostering emotional well-being.”
Rebecca McGuane, head of corporate wellbeing at Lockton, explained that clutter often contributes to mental overload, particularly in our modern, fast-paced lives. “Physical clutter creates a sense of visual noise that competes for our attention and can overwhelm our senses,” she shared, adding: “This leads to mental fatigue and a decrease in focus.”
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Dr Riadh Khudhier, consultant psychiatrist at NMC Royal Hospital, Sharjah
Emotional attachment
For many, clutter accumulates due to emotional attachment to objects, memories, or an overestimation of how useful something might be in the future. People may find it challenging to part with old items for fear of losing sentimental value or out of anxiety about being wasteful.
McGuane attributed this attachment to emotional comfort, noting: “Material possessions often serve as a psychological comfort, filling emotional voids or coping with anxiety.”
For those dealing with emotional or psychological challenges, clutter might offer a false sense of control. The emotional weight of clutter may sometimes feel overwhelming, but McGuane emphasised that decluttering offers a way to combat this sense of overwhelm.
“Decluttering creates a sense of order, which reduces decision fatigue by eliminating distractions,” she explained. “When you know where things are, you save time and mental energy.”
Take small steps
McGuane suggested even small steps—like tidying up a workspace or clearing a desk before starting work—can lead to immediate improvements in focus and productivity.
McGuane also highlighted that decluttering isn’t just about making space for physical objects—it’s a mental exercise that can benefit cognitive function. “Studies suggest that a tidy environment supports cognitive function,” she continued.
This shift in mindset towards simplicity and order has even affected architectural design. Aya Abu Ajeene, an architectural designer, said her clients are increasingly requesting minimalist designs that prioritise clarity and openness. “People are more aware of how their environment impacts their mood and productivity,” she said. “They want their homes to feel light, airy, and free from distractions. This design shift reflects a larger cultural movement toward mindfulness and mental well-being.”
The effects of decluttering are especially impactful for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression. As McGuane pointed out, decluttering can be a therapeutic tool, providing a sense of accomplishment and control. “The act of clearing space can symbolize emotional release,” she pointed out.
Despite the mental health benefits, decluttering can be daunting, especially for those who feel overwhelmed by their possessions.
Dr Khudhier offered strategies for overcoming this obstacle: “Start small. Focus on one area or category at a time.”
McGuane suggested using the “four-box method,” labelling boxes as keep, donate, recycle, and trash to simplify decision-making. This approach not only helps individuals stay organised but also provides tangible goals that contribute to a sense of accomplishment.
In the end, decluttering is much more than a physical act—it’s a mental and emotional practice that can promote a clearer, more balanced state of mind. As McGuane puts it, “A clutter-free space is not just a physical luxury; it’s a mental necessity.”
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