What’s the difference between being overwhelmed by clutter and struggling to actually let things go?
In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro talks with Kristine Todd, founder of KAT Organizing & Relocation Solutions, about extreme clutter, ADHD, and why understanding what’s behind the stuff matters.
They explore how clutter can look similar on the surface while the reasons behind it can be very different, especially when ADHD, aging, life transitions, and other challenges are involved.
What You’ll Learn
- How ADHD-related clutter can differ from extreme clutter
- Why letting go of possessions can be so difficult
- How overwhelm and trouble getting started contribute to clutter
- Why trust matters when helping someone with extreme clutter
- How aging and major life changes can affect clutter
- Why starting small can make decluttering more manageable
- How having someone there with you can help you get started
ADHD, Clutter & Overwhelm
For someone with ADHD, clutter can build because they’re overwhelmed, don’t know where to begin, or struggle to stay on task. With extreme clutter, Kristine explains that possessions may have specific purposes or reasons attached to them, making letting go more complicated.
The key is understanding what’s happening beneath the clutter instead of approaching every person or home the same way.
Start Small
If the clutter feels overwhelming, Kristine’s advice is simple: don’t start with the whole house.
Set a timer for five minutes. Pick one drawer. Put one thing where it belongs. And if doing it alone feels impossible, ask someone to simply sit with you.
“Start slow and start small.”
Sometimes getting started is the win.
About Kristine Todd
Kristine Todd is the founder of KAT Organizing & Relocation Solutions in the Chicago area. She specializes in senior moves and downsizing, clutter support, and working with people with ADHD. She is also a member of NASMM and the Institute for Challenging Disorganization.
About Jami Shapiro
Jami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, author of This Explains So Much, and host of Grandma Has ADHD. She is also the founder of Silver Linings Transitions, a move management and organizing company serving San Diego and the Coachella Valley. Her work focuses on ADHD, aging, life transitions, and helping people better understand how their brains work.
Resources
It’s never too late to make the rest of your life the best of your life.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.
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