25 Amazing Tips For Cleaning When Depressed

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Do you want to know the most amazing tips for cleaning when depressed?

Cleaning Your Apartment if you're Depressed

When you’re in the throes of depression, it can be hard to get anything done. As someone who struggles with depression around my period, this happens to me for a few days a month and sometimes seeps into the rest of the month.

This post is all about Cleaning When Depressed.

If you don’t know where to start when it comes to cleaning products, here is a post I wrote on medium going through the best cleaning products as a beginner.

https://caroline-archer.medium.com/cleaning-product-starter-kit-and-how-to-use-661de00ad54c

Tips For Cleaning When Depressed

Start Small: Begin with a small task like clearing off a table or making your bed. Completing it successfully can give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.
Break It Down: Rather than looking at cleaning as one big task, break it down into small, manageable parts. Focus on one room or even one corner at a time.
Create a Routine: Establishing a simple daily cleaning routine can help make the task feel less overwhelming. It adds structure and can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
Use a Timer: Set a timer for a short period, like 10 or 15 minutes. Clean for that amount of time, then take a break. This method can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed cleaning when depressed.
Listen to Music or Podcasts: Make cleaning more enjoyable by listening to your favorite music or podcasts. This can distract your mind from negative thoughts and make the time pass more quickly.
Declutter: Sometimes, the sheer amount of stuff can add to feelings of overwhelm. Consider decluttering and getting rid of items you no longer need or use.
Invite Help: If the task feels too daunting, don’t hesitate to ask for help. A friend or family member can provide company and assistance, making the process less stressful.
Reward Yourself: Give yourself a reward when you complete a task, no matter how small. This can be a cup of tea, a walk outside, or anything else that brings you joy.
Be Kind to Yourself: Remember, it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. The goal is progress, not perfection. Be patient and gentle with yourself during this process.
Use Cleaning Products You Love: Invest in cleaning products that smell good or are environmentally friendly. This can make the process more enjoyable and less of a chore.
Make a Cleaning Checklist: Having a visual guide of what needs to be done can help organize your thoughts and provide a sense of accomplishment as you tick off completed tasks.
Prioritize Your Tasks: Not everything needs to be done at once. Identify the most important tasks and focus on those first. This is usually picking up and taking out the trash.
Natural Light: Open curtains or blinds to let in natural light while you clean. It can boost your mood and make the space feel fresher and cleaner.
Incorporate Exercise: Turn cleaning into a workout. Activities like vacuuming or mopping can be great ways to get moving. Walk all over the room and, find something to pick up, carry a trash bag with you to incorporate a little more exercise.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness while cleaning. Focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. Focus on how you feel and how the products smell. Even if it is bad, notice the changes you’re making!
Clean at Your Best Time: Identify when you have the most energy during the day and try to clean during that time. For me, this is right before work when I haven’t given away all my energy yet.
Get Organized: Use bins, baskets, and organizers to keep your space tidy. Knowing where everything goes can make cleaning up easier.
Daily Maintenance: Try to maintain cleanliness daily. It’s easier to do a little bit each day than to tackle a big mess all at once.
Create a Relaxing Environment: Light a candle or use an essential oil diffuser with a scent you love to create a relaxing environment while you clean.
Hydrate and Snack: Remember to stay hydrated and have a healthy snack while cleaning. It’s essential to take care of your physical health too. It also gives you an excuse to take a moment to appreciate all your work.
Use Tools That Work for You: Find cleaning tools that are comfortable and effective for you. This can make the process more efficient and less physically demanding. Look for reviews before you buy a new product to see if it’ll work for you and your home.
Make a Cleaning Schedule: A cleaning schedule can help you stay on track and prevent tasks from becoming too overwhelming. Once the steps are broken down, give yourself specific days for each task so it is more attainable.
Take Before and After Photos: This can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to maintain cleanliness. It is so powerful to see your progress, and it will make it less intimidating if you get to that point again.
Turn Off Distractions: Avoid getting sidetracked by turning off your phone or other distractions. Just turn your phone on do not disturb while you clean to help keep you on track.
Remember It’s Okay to Have Off Days: Everyone has days when they just can’t muster the energy to clean. Be kind to yourself on these days, rest, and try again tomorrow.

Cleaning A Depression Room

Living with depression can be challenging, and one of the telltale signs is a room that’s been neglected, often characterized by clutter, disorganization, and dirt. Cleaning when depressed can make cleaning such a space seem insurmountable, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process less overwhelming and even therapeutic.

Start by opening the curtains or blinds to let in natural light, which can instantly lift your mood. If possible, open a window to circulate fresh air. The next step is to clear the clutter. Start with obvious trash – empty food containers, used tissues, etc. Don’t worry about deep cleaning at this point; just focus on clearing a path and removing items that clearly don’t belong in the room.

Next, tackle the laundry. Gather any clothes lying around, whether they need washing or simply putting away. Having clean clothes can make you feel better, and seeing them neatly arranged can provide a sense of accomplishment.

Now, focus on the surfaces. Wipe down your desk, nightstand, or any other surfaces using your favorite cleaning supplies. This can be a slow process, but remember, the goal is progress, not perfection.

Finally, change your bed sheets and fluff your pillows. There’s something comforting about a clean, well-made bed. If you have the energy, vacuum or sweep the floor.

Remember, it’s okay to take breaks. Listen to some uplifting music or a podcast to keep you company. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. Recognizing that you must clean up and take the first step is already a huge achievement. Cleaning your room won’t cure depression, but it can help create a healthier environment that may boost your mood and contribute to your overall well-being.

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