By Jeff Copper, MBA, PCC, PCAC, CPCC, ACG – December 1, 2025
Decluttering sounds simple—just get rid of what you don’t need, right? But for those with ADHD, it’s rarely that straightforward. Clutter isn’t just physical; it carries emotional weight. And when the ADHD brain is already working overtime to manage executive function challenges, sorting through piles of memories, guilt, and uncertainty can feel completely overwhelming.
In this revealing episode of Attention Talk Radio, I talked with ADHD professional organizer Cris Sgrott of Organizing Maniacs about the real challenges behind clutter—and it’s not just disorganization. We explored how emotional attachments to objects—whether sentimental, practical, or guilt-ridden—can paralyze even the best intentions to declutter.
You might feel guilty about wasting money, sentimental about a gift from someone you’ve lost, or anxious about needing an item someday. These emotions create invisible obstacles that clutter your mind as much as your space. For those with ADHD, these feelings can trigger shame, avoidance, and decision fatigue.
But there is hope. Our conversation offers insights and strategies for understanding the emotional ties that keep you stuck—and how to loosen them without judgment. If clutter feels like a constant battle, this episode may help you reframe the struggle and take a compassionate step forward.
Listen to the episode, ADHD: The Role Emotions Play in Decluttering, around the challenges of decluttering and the invisible role emotions play as an obstacle to getting rid of things. Gain insight on what you may not realize is getting in your way and learn to live in peace.